Case study Essay Example for Free

Case study EssayThe imaginativeness allocation for each activity for each week and the total weekly resource assignments are file in Figure 1, which is a Gantt chart along with a histogram. Now, examine Figure 1 closely. Using the concept of resource leveling, determine the flaws in this resource schedule, write down the disadvantages of much(prenominal) resource loading and develop a more leveled schedule. This forms your Exercise 2 for this week. Candace Given below is the information about the IT compute we discussed in our Lesson 5 commentary under Resource Leveling. Also given below is the current resource loading Gantt chart along with a histogram. Now, subscribe a close look at figures given below and using the concept of resource leveling, determine the flaws in this resource schedule, write down the disadvantages of such resource loading, and develop a more leveled schedule. For your ready reference, an Excel sheet (ResourceLevelingExercise. xls) is provided to comp lete this exercise.

Perspective of Aging Paper Essay Example for Free

Perspective of Aging Paper EssayAging, the process of developing or increase old the progression of changes in appearance (Ameri deal Heritage mental lexicon, 2007). The agency of the media is to educate and inform as well as other masses the senior population suffers greatly from negative stereotyping than any other age group. almost media outlets portray aging in a stereotypical way relating old age to death or disease. This essay reflects on how cured Americans are visualised through the different media outlets. Television shows and commercial advertisements, revolutionarys and magazines are three types of media outlets that depict older Americans. Television definitely stereotypes the elderly as it relates to their mental capabilities as well as their physical capabilities. Television shows and delineation roles feature senior citizens through a lens of less value placing emphasis on the burdens of growing old. These roles show seniors as passive, weak, simple minded and incapable of doing things on their own and not being able to take care of themselves.For example an older movie called The Cocoon depicts older adults as dying and withering away until they found the fountain of youth and things that was done in their younger years, which now is a retrospection suddenly becomes eachday fascinations. It is not that seniors cannot function it is more like they chose not to. Commercials advertise senior ageing creams that get rid of wrinkles all over the personify especially under the eyes showing signs of aging while hair dying products gets rid of the un insufficiencying grey commercials also advertise different medical devices that can help seniors move around better or pick things up from a distance without moving out of their favorite chair. There are motley commercials that advertiser life insurance or burial expenses. Another media outlet that depict older adults would be radio through entertainment for example when an older adult fall, they may not be able to pick themselves up and comedians will make a joke out of it with laughter.The media has the power that will suspend people to have a preconceived notion to an audience as truth the media can decide what way of life is acceptable and what is not. Media plays a fine quality in shaping and reflecting public opinion. There has been a widespread of negative attitudes about aging in print in such magazines as Time or Newsweek that displays photographs of seniors looking disoriented as if they were lost given the impression they cannot care for themselves based on the articles content. In closing, The overall impressions that the media offers about the older adult is by emphasizing the vulnerabilities of seniors in such a manner that gives the impression that being old is the thing that we as humans most want to avoid, so beauty creams that are offered that can remove wrinkles, telephones that are made with large face buttons, hearing aids that are sold with the message that you dont receive what youre missing are just selling points.Many forms of plastic surgery are supposed to be the remedy for gruntleing beautiful and looking young fitting about anything associated with getting older is portrayed as something people dont want to happen. The unfortunate downside of this barrage of negative messaging about becoming older is that it reinforces the design that being older is being unwanted and no longer valuable to a fast moving beautiful world of people whose desire is to stay young, fresh faced, attractive and to be old, is to not be a welcome part of this society. Individuals should value the aging process in older adults because it is an unavoidable part of life that has it own special values and can offer so many things to the younger generations no matter what stage of life one competency be in.The wisdom and information of the older adult offers a calming confidence to society that beauty does come in many forms and can be expres sed in many ways and that it does not have to have a sexy component to it to be beautiful and desirable. The growing numbers of frustrate boomers in this society is bringing a new focus on how exciting and active the older citizen can be and that the contributions to government, science and entertainment and every facet of life is enriched by those who have lived long lives and are still actively giving back to society in countless ways new and creative views of how beautiful it can be to grow older and be appreciated for who you are and not how old you are.ReferenceAmerican Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (2007) 4th edition Houghton, Mifflin

Company Overview of VEDANTA RESOURCES

go with Overview of VEDANTA RESOURCESINTRODUCTIONVedanta resources is the first Indian confederacy to be listed in the London stock exchange in celestial latitude 2003. It is an FTSE carbon metals and exploit fol menial with its headquarters located in London, UK and is Indias largest non ferrous phoner based on their revenues. The go with is princip wholey situated in India, although they construct possessions and trading operations in other locations such as Zambia and Australia. Vedanta Resources is mainly invested in copper, zinc, Aluminium channeles, however the company is now adding to their portfolio by diversifying into a commercial argumentation leader extension business.The chemical group has experienced a significant ingathering in recent years on grounds of various expansions in projects owing to a world class resource base containing copper, zinc and Aluminium, the result of this being the acquisition of Sesa Goa in April 2007, which enab lead them to p enetrate into the iron ore market. Therefore the organization is actively dynamic in the iron ore, zinc, Aluminium and copper businesses.Vedanta has a precise vision and mission statement, vision being to be clear and committed so that they great billet become the market leaders in the non- ferrous market segment and their mission is to be a low cost, million-ton per annum producer, the ultimate goal however is to light up the company a success, needless to say that such a mission allow surely put India on a global competitive platform, in the metals and dig segment.The company has continuously demonstrated that they atomic number 18 able to bring in projects that argon of high significance thereby contributing unmatched appendage at minimum pricing while ensuring high returns to all their sh arholders. Also, the organization makes certain that they meet the high conservative standards that are set, so that unjustifiable numbers game are non shown in their balance sheets .Vedanta Resources deals with a diverse portfolio of tap and metals business as they make available eminent proceeds to their shareholders even as they make sure that they are socially and environmentally accountable, as the watchfulness keeps track of their employees health and safety, community issues and of their surroundings.several(prenominal) of Vedanta Resources operations are authorized by International Management Systems Standard ISO 14001, proof of it being the many awards won by the company such as Recognition of Commitment Award from the represent of Internal Auditors, USA in 2005, Vedanta Resources being the nevertheless manucircumstanceuring company out of a total of four Indian companies to have ever received this award, not to mention the numerous safety and environment awards.To quote the chairman of Vedanta Resources, Mr.Anil Ag roughal India is a fast-emerging and attractive resource destination, and we believe our strategy and business objectives go away ha rness Indias high-quality wealthiness of mineral resources at low costs of development, positioning it as a leader on the global metals and mining map.ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTUREVedanta is an emerging transnational conglomerate with many overseas operations. Its organizational structure is a complex one with many subsidiaries, governing plug-in and a counseling committee. The governing board consists of decision maker and non executive directors. The executive board of directors consists of Mr. Anil Agarwal, Mr. Navin Agarwal and Mr. M S Metha. Mr. Anil Agarwal founded the company and is leading the company as the executive chairman. Mr. Navin Agarwal is the deputy executive chairman of Vedanta and looks after the corporate business strategy and trusty for overall performance and growth. He besides heads the executive committee. Mr. M. S. Metha is the chief executive officer of Vedanta. He joined the conglomerate in the year 2000 and previously was working at Lloyds Steel Indust ries.The non executive board consists of Mr. Naresh Chandra, Mr. Aman Metha and Mr.Euan Macdonald. Mr. Naresh Chandra was a Padma Vibhushan award winner from the Government of India and he is an Indian Administrative Service officer. He joined the group in 2004 after holding many prestigious positions in India. Aman Metha also joined the group in 2004. Before that he was the CEO of HSBC. Euan Macdonald was the chairman of SBC Warburg India and specializes in emerging market finance.The management committee is lead by Mr. Navin Agarwal and consists ofCOMMITTEEDESIGNATIONTARUN JainPRESIDENT GROUP HUMAN RESOURCESDD JALANWHOLE TIME DIRECTOR CEO ALUMINIUM BUSINESSMS METHAWHOLE TIME DIRECTOR BALCOP K MUKHERJEEDIRECTOR operations KCMDILIP GOLANICOO HZLRAJAGOPAL K. KUMARCEO COPPER ZINC BUSINESSAKHILESH JOSHIHEAD MANGT ASSURANCE FUNCTIONJ. JANAKARAJCEO VEDANTA RESOURCESPRAMOD SURICEO IRON ORE BUSINESSM SIDDIQICFO VEDANTA RESOURCEDA THIRUNAVUKKARASUDOF STERLITEVedanta Resources plc. is the parent company with many subsidiaries operating(a) in different sectors in different names. Vedanta has interests in five main businesses. Each business is operated by one of its subsidiary. Below is the Vedanta resources plcs group tree.Copper BusinessCopper business are run and operated by Sterlite Industries (India) Limited, Konkola Copper Mines Plc and Copper Mines of Tasmania, however, Vedanta holds 53.9%, 79.4% and 100% venture respectively and management authority in the above companies. The total copper business has an annual toil of 678,412 stacks and generates revenue of $4,012 million. The end products are the uninterrupted Cast Rods and Copper Cathodes. Copper from the copper mines are smelted apply ISA process, one of the worlds leading engineering science in copper smelting. They have the latest version of CS 3000 Distributed Control System of Yokogawa from Japan to control the entire copper smelter.Aluminium BusinessBharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO) and Vedanta Aluminium Limited (VAL) are answerable for Aluminium business. Aluminium business has a total production capacity of 500,000 tons per annum. Vedanta has the controlling hazards of 70.5% in VAL and Sterlite, the subsidiary of Vedanta owns a stake of 51% and exercises management control. Currently the Aluminium business is under vigorous expansion and by 2012 it would become top five Aluminium producers in the world. The company produces metallurgic grade alumina and Aluminium ingots, billets and bars used for devising buses. The Aluminium smelter used the advanced technical specifications of British Standard Institute (BSI). The company has bagged OHSAS 18001 certification for good health and protection standards. VAL unit has obtained ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certificates for quality production and management practices. These Aluminium complexes also have integrated power plants in them. surface businessZinc business is wholly owned and operated by Hindustan Zinc limited ( HZL). Vedanta own 64.9% of share capital in HZL. It has an annual production of 9,64,000 tons of zinc that generates revenue of $1,782 million. HZL is the worlds integrated second largest producer of Zinc and Lead. Apart from Zinc and Lead the plant also produces Silver, Cadmium and generates power. Silver and Cadmium are obtained as a byproduct of Lead and Zinc metal respectively. The equity shares of HZL are traded at the Indian stock exchange. The metals are refined and sold harmonise to their quality.Iron ore businessThe whole iron ore business is operated by its subsidiary Sesa Goa limited. Vedanta has a controlling stake of 57.1%. The company makes iron ore, pig iron and metallurgical coke. The company has a production capacity of 21.4 million tons of iron ore fines and lumps which generates revenue of $1221.7 million. Apart from these they also sell the in-house technology for coke making. They found virgin technology using vibro compaction to stabilize char sooner usin g in the furnace for firing. Sesa Goas mines have ISO status for good management standards and safety.Commercial Power generation businessThis is a new business venture for Vedanta group and is run by its subsidiaries Sterlite Energy Limited (SEL) and Madras Aluminium Company Limited (MALCO). SEL is a 100% subsidiary of Sterlite Industries Ltd. As of now the excess power from its various plants are sold. Specialized commercial power generation plants are being set up in India. By the end of 2011 the power plants would become fully operational. Two plants are being set up with a combined generation of 4380MW per year.OPERATIONS OF VEDANTA RESOURCES PLCCORPORATE STRATEGYSince its incorporation in 1976, Vedanta has been very successful in its operations. The current turnover of company is $ 7931 million. The success can be owed to the corporate strategy of Vedanta which can be explained as followsOrganic DevelopmentThis involves developing organizations own capabilities. It is done by making using of latest technology for manufacturing processes spreading investments over a time, venturing the scope of entry in new markets, analyzing the ability of the company to enter them and then enter into such markets.Latest Technology for Mining Smelting operations Vedanta has been doing it by using highly advanced technology for manufacturing and designing. This economic aids in reducing the production costs and thereby gaining advantage to compete in the market. For e.g. The Sesa Goas team did a detailed experimentation involving studies on the temperature profile of the oven and redesigning the refractories. Followed by the systematic plant trials, it developed energy recovery coke making, an environment-friendly technology that is characterized low capital and operating cost, high energy recovery and capable of producing high quality metallurgical coke.Implementing cost reduction techniques Vedanta has signed long-term contracts with suppliers of unprocessed materia ls. This not only reduces production costs but also accounts for the continuous availability of resources without getting affected by market fluctuations.Launching Brownfield and Greenfield Projects These form a very important considerateness for a mining exertion. Brownfield projects are abandoned identifys that are available for industrial or commercial reuse. The development or expansions of such land is more fractious owing to contamination by earlier use. Greenfield projects are the ones which lack any constraints imposed by prior work. There is no need to demolish or remodel the structure. Vedanta has been investing in Brownfield and Greenfield projects for expansions. A 1.4 mtpa aluminium refinery project at Lanjigarh and an aluminium smelter of capacity 500,000 tpa both in state of Orissa, India are a few(prenominal) of the Greenfield projects launched by the company.Entry in New Market Also the company has now ventured into Commercial Power Generation. It recognised th e tremendous scope in the industry for commercial power generation, in India. It has therefore started commercial power generation plants in Chhattisgarh and Orissa. Also these plants are locates at strategic positions, mainly in the coal rich zones of India, thereby facilitating transport and easy availability of coal.Consolidation of assort StructureAs shown above, Vedanta has many subsidiaries like KCM, Sterlite Industries India Ltd, Sesa Goa Ltd etc. Although it has the Holding Stocks and management control over all these, some of the stakes are owned by private investors. Vedanta is constantly trying to buyback it stock and purchase shares of all its subsidiaries. This would help in a consolidated group structure. The main advantage of it is ease in the management decisions.Mergers and AcquisitionsSince 2004, the Vedanta Resources had only one acquisition till date by acquiring the Madras Aluminium Co Ltd. While taking stake into consideration the Vedanta resources taken over 5 companies till finalization of balance sheet for 2010. Acquisitions include Konkola Copper Mines Plc. in 2004 and part in 2009 with a total of 79.4% stake, next Sterlite Gold Ltd and Finsider International Co Ltd both in the year 2007. Moreover, the company acquired well-nigh 25.8% by the outstanding common shares of Sterlite Gold on a fully-diluted basis. Also the company acquired Finsider International Co Ltd. Fully from a Japanese company called Mitsui Co at around USD 981 million. In the year 2009 the company acquired 51% of Sesa Goa Ltd, Indias largest producer-exporter of Iron-Ore in the private sector at INR 4070 Crore.Now, the Vedanta Resources are planning to acquire 60% stake in Crain India Company. The Cairn India is a leading player in Oil and Gas industry in India. Moreover, Crain India is one the biggest private exploration and Production Company currently operating in India. Edinburgh based Crain Energy is holding a total of 62.37 percent stake in Crain India. Acc ording to the deal the Crain Energy will sell its stake to Vedanta Resources Plc for the deal amount of USD 9.6 billion at 405 INR per share.Successful acquisition of KCM, MALCO, Sterlite Gold Ltd and Sesa Goa has added substantial growth to the Vedanta as a whole. They are go looking for a new growth and acquisition opportunities in the metal and mining sector and related opportunities in India and elsewhere. They are taking all these locomote by keeping government privatization programmed in mind.PESTEL ANALYSISPolitical LegalAs minerals are a nations wealth, the mining industry operates under the huge demoralize of political and licit pressure. Mainly they are state owned or nationalized and involves a large and complicated process for licensing. The industry is very much set by governmental law that mainly focuses on labour and environmental parts. In the recent days, the increasing concern for environmental issues has make the government to pressurise the mining policie s. Upon this the media focus is electrostatic more an added pressure for the mining industry. Even though the governments policies are mainly aimed to protect the resources but they also encourage exports by giving subsidies and encourage new technology developments.EconomicMining is an industry that requires very high capital investment. thence, interest rates make a study impact. Not all countries are rich in deposits of minerals hence mining generally involves import and export of products. The exchange rates fluctuations are a predominate concern. The import taxes and international trade cycle are also important economic factors for the mining industry.SocialBeing an industry that impacts the surrounding environment in areas of its operation, the support of the local community is of the most important and underlying factors for mining. Mining, though, a resource based industry, cannot be carried out in areas of high population because of the concerns that it whitethorn affec t the public health. Mining has also been under the scanner of various activist groups over the recent years. The industry thus has also been attracting continuous media attention. Vedanta has been attracting a lot of media attention recently over ESG issues.TechnologyThe process involved in the mining industry right from the raw material transportation still export involves risky process. In those conditions the laws prevent the use of human resources that make the mining industry heavily dependent on technology. Recently the mines are using computerized machines that operates according to its program and automated conveyor belts to reach its specified destination i.e. harbor or warehouse. But still the underground mining relies mainly on human resource due to its complicated nature of mining.EnvironmentalMining is an industry that affects and makes a negative impact on the environment during and after the process. Thus any mining activity has to go through with(predicate) a numbe r of clearances and regulations concerning the environment. Almost all countries demand an investigation of its impact on the environment before any activity can start.PORTERS 5 FORCES ANALYSISThe followers diagram gives the 5 Forces Analysis for Vedanta ResourcesThreat of New Entrants The threat of new entrants to Vedanta is very low. This is mainly because of high capital investments required. The limited resources in mining and the costs of exploration, the various government laws, the equipment required, additional costs incurred in rehabilitation of people living at mining sites etc all make it difficult for new entrants to venture in this industry.Threat of Substitutes The threat of substitutes also is low. This is mainly because metals are required basically for all types of manufacturing industries as an input. Even if substitution is considered, it has limited scope. Also the price/performance ratios of iron, aluminium etc is low, making the threat of substitutes even less .Bargaining Power of Suppliers The suppliers include the suppliers of raw materials required, that of equipment etc. There are very few suppliers and therefore their bargaining power is high. Also the cost of switching suppliers is high making it difficult to do so. Vedanta has entered into long term contracts with their suppliers, thus reducing the costs. It also ensures that Vedanta get run of goods without being affected by market fluctuations.Bargaining Power of Buyers This is low as the demand of the metals and metal products is very high. Also switching costs are high as the costumers normally have contracts with the company.Competitive Rivalry Some of the competitors of Vedanta Group are Rio-Tinto, BHP Billiton Ltd, Grupo-Mexico, Hindalco etc. The competition is intense as every player is trying for their market share as the resources are becoming restricted and limited. bring up ANALYSISA complete SWOT compend of Vedanta Resources plc would provide a clear and unbiased str ategic analysis of the companys strengths and weakness and potential opportunities and threats, this sort of analysis helps the business in understanding its partners, customers and competitors better.STRENGTHS The strength can be determined by the fact that the company has assets that are global with respect to both home plate and size their low cost of production which makes the group competitive among its peers and the skill and experience that are incorporated in the nature of their assets is of high quality. Their recent growth in volume and the many measures that the group have taken in reducing costs has change magnitude their cash flow considerably The Company understands the fact that it is important to maintain a low leverage by enabling adequate liquidity and meeting all their financial obligations, possessing a strong vision, making strategic acquisitions and having an ability to think ahead. They also understand the value of their employees which is a competitive adva ntage as its not easily reproducible like technology and the fact that they strive for excellence has only increased their strength.WEAKNESSES Poor brand management, not giving importance to marketing of the company, keeping silent while a swarm of people accusing the company has increased trouble for the company. Therefore, the company must make all efforts in order to correct the problem before they run out of business and need to curtail their operations.OPPORTUNITIES The opportunities for the group are many, success in the group will allow the company to compete globally. Several efforts are made by the company with respect to expansion of the company and growth and this can be clearly seen in the group on having acquired Sesa Goa, which makes it accomplishable for the company to penetrate through the iron ore market and by making strategic decisions, will guarantee that Vedanta Resources triumphs.THREATS The potential threats as reported by The main(a) news paper is the fact that the human rights fendors that stood outside the companys building in their avatar costumes, outshone the companys accomplishments which is a major threat to the companys image. The backing out of the Church of England only six months after researching into the company or Aviva who is one of their backers, who voted against them in three resolutions in board meeting which they attended. Vedanta however, denies the rumors concerning the pollution of Lanjugarh, or any breach in human rights, the encroachment of land in Nyamgiri Hills in Orissa and any other accusations that have been made against the company and they continue to contest any allegations made against the group. Although the rumors are overtaking their defensive stand and is causing a serious dent to the Vedanta Groups image. (The Independent, 2010)COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGEIn terms of the competitive advantages for Vedanta resources Plc, Firstly, they have a mining site located where the availability of natural resource s is high. Their production is done on the basis of the accessibility of the raw material. As the natural resources are highly available, the supply of the raw material and the cost of production can be low, and the cost of capital can be divided to sustain it in the current market.The raw material in the industry is nothing but the resources held by the group and as they located where there is a rich source of natural resources, not to mention the availability of cheap labour at their mining site which results in Vedanta having a low cost of production per unit leading the company to win an award for the low cost of production in year 2007. Culture of the society where there are located, is also well known by them so the adjustment to the market environment would not be an issue placing the company is a very advantageous positionThe company has also started their operations in power production unit. They had produced the power sufficient enough for their production and the excess p roduction was sold out and this resulted to the investment in a power generation plant. Now they have obtained blocks for 112.2 million tons with the ministry of coal. They have signed a contract with Chhattisgarh government for the interested thermal and coal power generation plant for 1200 MW power capacity.India is fifth largest in the world for the bauxite with the reserve about of 2,600 million tones and for the coal reserves and for iron ore it is sixth. The most of the mining and smelting site for Vedanta resources are in India. This is advantageous for potential growth in the further prospective for the company.CORE COMPETENCEFor Vedanta the core competence of their business strategy is developing low cost, with inexpensive skilled and educated labour. (Business Standard, 2008) In the mining industry, the high costs are to do with the investment in acquiring a mining site and costs need for production. However, Vedanta has reduced its cost of production owing to their locati on, which is rich in natural resources. The current production for the Aluminium is 1.4 mtpa which is planned to be increased by 6,00,000 tpa to reach is total production of 2 mtpa. The company aims at investing $ 9.8 Billion by which they will be the fifth mining company for Aluminium metal.CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYIn the present-day business scenario, Corporate Social responsibility (C.S.R.) and sustainability have become a very high-profile agenda in many countries and industries. Thus, due to the nature of its business, Corporate Social Responsibility is a pretty confound and complicated issue for Vedanta Resources Plc. The company has quite a mixed platter on the social responsibility front. Nonetheless, the company has made certain valiant efforts to conduct their business in a socially responsible manner.Vedantas current C.S.R. agenda acknowledges the responsible management of the Environmental, Community, Health and Safety and Employee issues with respect to all of th eir operations. The companys Health, Safety and Environment (H.S.E) management framework administers the healthy and sound management of its operations. According to its current agenda, the company aims to reduce the impact of its activities on the environment. Efficient consumption of energy and water and use of recycled materials is one of its main motives. It has taken initiatives through its subsidiaries to fulfill its motives. Being a mining company, the health and safety of its employees and the community is a core concern for Vedanta. The company has a Health and Safety management framework and policies in place, which aim to ensure a risk-free environment for its employees. Vedanta has also taken efforts to support and enhance the local community in the areas of their operations. Sterlite base is financially supported by the group, which provides free computer training to the young under-privileged people. The company has also made several contributions and donations to the community. For example being the donation of US$1.1 million to the Rajasthan drought relief fund, through its subsidiary H.Z.L.Despite making certain efforts to conduct its business in a socially responsible manner, Vedanta has been engulfed in a web of allegations concerning this issue over the last few years. The company has been under immense criticism for having a poor human rights and environmental record by various activist groups and authorities. A human rights group called Amnesty International, has criticized and raised the issue of ill treatment of the local tribal people by Vedanta in the Niyamgiri hills in Orissa, India. Various other activist groups have also accused Vedanta and its subsidiaries of threatening the livelihood of the community residing in and around the areas of its mines. This also led to recent public demonstrations and protest against the company worldwide. However, the company has maintained a stance that, it would act in a responsible manner and th at the proposed project will only enhance the community as a whole in the particular area.Vedantas Alumina refinery at Lanjigarh in Orissa, India, has also been critiqued by the State defilement Control board in India for air and water pollution. Amnesty International has accused Vedanta of failing to curb the impact created by its refinery of air pollution on the local community. The company is also facing investigations and charges regarding pollution because of its project in Armenia. This is another issue that has been raised by various activist groups.The company has also failed to maintain a clear health and safety record recently. Separate incidents have darned its reputation concerning safety efforts. An under construction chimney at its smelter in Chhattisgarh, India collapsed causing death of more than 40 workers and employees. The company has also been accused of safety negligence as its unsafe mining operations have led to deaths of more than 25 workers and employees and injuries to hundreds of others in 2007.The controversies, poor human rights and environmental allegations have caused a lot of socially responsible investors to divest from the company. after protests by Survival International a human rights group regarding the Orrisa issue, the Church of England sold its stake worth 3.75 million pounds in Vedanta resources on the basis of honest grounds. The Church stated that we are not satisfied that Vedanta has shown, or is likely in future to show, the level of respect for human rights and local communities that we expect of companies in whom the Church investing bodies hold shares, The Scottish investment firm Martin Carrie Investments also sold its stake worth more than 2 million pounds following protest from activist groups. Other responsible investors like the Swedish Government, Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, Dutch investment firm PGGM and a few others have joined the bandwagon of disinvesting from the company following its poor rece nt social record. The BP Pension fund has also reduced its share following similar concerns. The UK and Norwegian governments have also condemned the company. The disinvestment by shareholders has been a major concern for Vedanta as it certainly threatens to affect its growth.On 24th August 2010, the Indian government blocked the companys proposal for a new mine in India alleging Vedanta of having a poor human rights and environmental record. Indias Environment minister stated, There is no emotion, no politics, no prejudice I have taken the decision in a purely legal approach, that these laws are being violated. This has been a major blow for Vedanta as it was planning to invest more than 5 billion pounds in the Niyamgiri project.The company has also been alleged of charges of bribery in Chennai, India for the reopening of a factory that was shut down due to a major accident. Sterlite, a subsidiary of Vedanta was slapped with tax notice of more than 44 million pounds by the India Ex cise department in 2010 while a few other legal violations have also tarnished the companys image.All the recent allegations and controversies in the recent times resulted in a negative image for the company. Its stock rose tremendously by more than 200% from April 2009 to April 2010 but after the recent allegations and concerns over disinvestment by investors, the stock has been a sharp decline. Thus, the issue of corporate social responsibility has certainly made an impact on its growth recently and could also be a cause of concern if the company does not adopt new strategies to change its CSR record. Vedanta must revive its CSR agenda to clarify investor concerns. The company has however claimed that it aims resolve all the issues regarding the allegations and aim to enrich and empower the community wherever they operate.Projects Under examLanjigarh Bauxite MineLanjigarh SmelterChhattisgarh Chimney CollapseChennai FactorySourceCONCLUSIONIn conclusion Vedanta Resources is Indias largest non-ferrous metal and mining company based on revenue. This FTSE-100 company has a strong balance sheet with cash and liquid investment of $7.2 billion and has cash in excess of $7.0 billion. Moreover, its the only Indian manufacturing company listed at London Stock Exchange. They are working with workforce of 30,000.The analysis shown above certainly explains the success of Vedanta Resources in mining industry. This success can be enormously owed to its corporate strategy. However there are still some glitches in the strategy. This is evident by the SWOT analysis, so also the effects on its business as an aftermath of its weak corporate social responsibility. Therefore it is evident that their current corporate strategy is not sustainable. Although due consideration has been given in asset optimization, reducing costs and thereby gaining profits Vedanta has not given due consideration to the threat posed by its competitors. If any of the competitors enter India, for minin g then Vedanta would not be able to survive. Moreover their corporate social responsibility has been lacking this has severely affected their Brand-name, a very important factor in todays market. It has also resulted in decreased market share and withdrawal from many of their investors like Church of England. Therefore certain changes have to be made in their current corporate strategy.First of all, the company should give due consideration to its Social Responsibility, it should provide rehabilitation facilities to people, who have lost their lands due to mining activities. It should provide safety and security measures for their workers. It should also come with policies that are in accordance with the human right and environment. All this would add up with Brand exposure of the company. It should try to improve relations with Indian governm

Effect Of Globalization On Multinational Corporations Economics Essay

Effect Of Globalization On Multinational Corporations Economics EssayGlobalisation is the competition in an international market. The growth set out of developing nations and their acquisitions of previously first- arena owned corporations indicates that the developed world no longer has the upper hand- scotch growth in the west has been miniscule in comparison. triumph in this new global market requires the ability to accommodate the different needs of diverse consumer groups. Companies can achieve this through product and process innovations and maximise profits. Entrepreneurship is also increasingly recognised and as an alternative course to fortune as opposed to trading r atomic number 18 commodities.The new market (developing markets)Companies from emergent economies are following the lead of their developed counterparts, issuing stocks and encouraging garmentment. This encouraged growth and share appreciation, surpassing past expectations. Some emerge companies growth has even outpaced well-known(a) multi-national companies (MNCs) from the developed world- competing, acquiring and exploiting the endeavours and experiences of first-world MNCs. Similarly, developed nations are tapping into emerging economies, for their market, stock markets and possible mutually beneficial co-operation opportunities.If current economic growth pervades, a common hobby for all MNCs could be consumers from non-developed markets. Increasing affluence leads to increased consumption of goods and services in developing nations, this trend is forecasted to continue for years. Local companies however, have an advantage of producing products that disturb the minimum requirements of the locals. Developed corporations are unwilling to risk their reputation and may need other strategies to tap into low-end consumer markets.Suspicion of bad capitalism (Baumol, Litan and Schramm, 2007) in emerging economies stirred protectionist sen mnts in developed countries. This is reasonable as many emergent economies have government suppor, giving them unfair advantage over their developed rivals. create countries political systems differ greatly from those in developed nations, where corruption, political influence over patronage and intellectual property rights, could be a problem. One fix is that large MNCs may choose to adopt a different ethical stand in countries with lax regulations. Other forms of government intervention, wish subsidies or grants, that fuels economic growth is not sustainable indefinitely, and may eventually induce economic backlash. This taught sleep togetherrs to implement strict regulations over the corporation and stick to effective and orthodox business strategies to stay competitive.First-worlds (DEVELOPED MNCs)Developed MNCs may have certain concerns when investing in emergent economies. These may include corrupt or non-meritocratic politicians in the government, protectionist sentiments against remote MNCs and suspicion amongst e mployees of different backgrounds and ethnicities. The lack of diversification within the board of directors, and thus shortage of insight into developing economies, may be a challenge for first-world MNCs.First-world MNCs relocate their businesses, find local firms and hire local talents to stay relevant. Combining competitive local resources with global operations, MNCs engage in risk-sharing and engage in mutually beneficial alliances with small firms to effectively tap into developing markets. Large MNCs might also approach government officials directly with an analysis of the countrys issues and offer solutions though their products and services. This alleviates problems and improves the countrys appeal to potential investors, and simultaneously generates revenue for the firm.Due to globalisation, skills of the old become obsolete they no longer deal with the developed world, but developing economies instead. Large MNCs recognise this and to better manage overseas operations, they deploy more competent staff abroad and even look for talented natives to fill top positions, though eligible candidates are unique and retaining them is difficult.Emergent economies (FIRMS FROM DEVELOPING COUNTRIES)Emergent countries bring forward products and strategies that push prices to a new low- specialising in low-end markets and increasingly compete with large firms in the middle-income bracket as well. Though growth may be rapid, studies have found developing MNCs business models and tactics short of their first-world counterparts, placing doubt on the sustainability of their economic growth. Although these companies may shut up be inexperienced and face various problems, they adopt sensible measures and aspire to raise the company, and meet global standards. Individuals and companies in developing nations are also reservoir to strive towards better governance and demanding higher ethical standards from politicians and businesses alike. This spurs positive sentimen ts to the potential of these firms, though they are not based in first-world nations.Corporate-social responsibility on the world stageBeing a good corporate citizen has brought more benefits than costs. This has helped firms attract clients, be socially responsible and gain an edge over unethical rivals. However, slightly governments continue to devalue ethics and interfere in business dealings for political ends, proliferating bad capitalism. Government intervention in business deals can check or aid transactions. Corrupt officials can hasten legal processes for firms with bribes, and others boycott and ban transactions due to non-economic reasons. This raises the issue of how the governing body will meet business if they choose to start operations in the country.Sovereign-wealth funds (SWFs) from developing countries have been increasingly active in acquiring stakes in foreign firms. Though this has provided needy corporations with capital, the expansion of the SWFs portfolios is attracting close attention. Concerns rise over what the SWFs will do with the acquired stakes and assets, for political reasons or for strategy or did they just invest their money for monetary returns. Criticisms are not well received by the SWFs and the IMF is working on guidelines for SWFs to follow in order to quell concerns.As time passes, SWFs would have obtained a probable proportion of stakes in corporations around the world, making them partially or entirely state-owned. Some are concerned that SWFs from countries like Russia and China might exert unhealthy influence on businesses and move towards state-led capitalism instead of the free-market system, proliferating bad capitalism. Currently, there has been no concrete proof to involve them of these deeds.Ultimately, if the worlds governments, businesses and societies were to be educated about good capitalism, globalization would bring the world together in the name of progress.

The Introduction Of Cultural Anthropology Cultural Studies Essay

The Introduction Of Cultural Anthropology Cultural Studies EssayTraditional stageing has been a topic of much concern when it comes to the ball of fashion. Many fashions in todays world catch slowly developed from the traditional garwork forcets that study been in existence for a grand time. During ancient times, the ancestors just dressed scantily with animal struggle but with the development of fabrics, this has changed tremendously. Each culture has its own unique way of doing things. Culture has been diverse and various in all roles and continents of the world. Indeed, in every region people have the time determine and virtues that they value most and the doctrines that they follow which contributes to a unique culture. Starting with the behavior, arts, music, believes, cuisine, and literature different cultures portray different models of everything.The training is also unique and it is easy to identify people with how they dress. The Asian and African cultures ar two cultures that have held on to their customs and cultures, to date people still value and practice their traditions irrespective of the westernization. Although civilization has threatened culture with extinction, people need to be rooted in it to avoid the good values and virtues from disappearing. This paper examines the similarities and differences in styles of dress in Asian culture and African culture.What individuals put on is dependent on a number of factors. When people dress, those around them kat once their mark since the style is identifiable in many ways and functions. Dressing, according to many, is for warmth, protection and/or comfort this, fact coupled with others makes dressing substantial. In aras of the Middle einsteinium there argon different color in applied for women and men such that while women arrogate black the men break in white. Traditionally, women wore black in the wed ceremonies since it was associated with fertility and status but this has changed with many preferring the westernized white gowns. The use of cloth relates the past, present and ensures a future through different experience and hearty relations. spend (2002) in his article Fashion Statements quotes We deliver clothes non still to be comfortable in the environment, but its iodine of the easiest ways of saying something near our identities, our histories, our aspirations, of where we want to be in the world,Social status or class is another reason people wear differently. Kings, queens, chiefs and other authorities dignitaries will wear differently from the usualers or subjects being ruled e.g. Chiefs will tend to wear uniforms (Derber, 2000, p.63). Their dressing maybe modified to place their power, rank, status and authority. Wear for the authorities may be got from animals skin and ar always rargon to obtain to the ordinary person. This makes it easier to identify people from depress castes. Color is also used to identify social status and o ne color used for the authorities for easy identification. Luxurious garments are also faint-hearted by the rich and famous to indicate richesiness (Winter, 2002).Gender is also another factor to consider when dressing. Men and Women in culture have been seen as unequal and will wear differently distributively time they dress. Their outfits are also different with women traditionally wearing clothes that are covering their body in totality. The garments come differentiated in color, styles and fabric. The traditional culture dressing stressed on modesty, secrecy, and dignity. These dressings are regulated by laws of the traditions which dictate what men and women ought and ought not to wear.People also dressed differently for different occasions, for example, during weddings people will want to be radiant and very attractive but for funerals they will look gloomy and this will be shown in the dress codes. For war and circumcisions occasions all will dress differently. For sports and different activities that are involving the dress code will change to suit the event.Religion is also important when dressing. This may be seen as occupational clothing since most will stick to it for as long as they are in the religion. Different religions wear differently and most recommend decent dressing. Muslims, for example, will wear very conservatively such that women must cover their head with the hijab and long Kangas while men wear a white robe with a cap, and the Jews will wear robes and turbans as they worship.CultureThe Asian culture and African culture are multi ethnic and the dressings involved are diverse. However, the religions practiced desire Islam may be similar hence make the dressing look alike. This means different styles, fabrics, designs are put in these cultures for both men and women.Asian culture and African cultureAsian cultures vary and the continent is rich in culture. These include the Shinto, Mahayana Buddhists Confucian of japan Shamanisti c and Marxists of South Korea, Taoists, the Hindu, and the Spiritist of Thai acres. As many as there are the cultures so there are the differences. These differences are religion, language, beliefs, clothing, and ethics (Good, 2001).The Asian culture is to a greater extent critical when it comes to religion. They have more reference to a supreme being no matter where they are in the continent and this is common to all traditions and cultural entities. The dressing in the Asian culture is more linked to occasions which all have meaning (Good, 2001). The colors of the cloths they wear signifies and symbolizes different things e.g. red signifies wealth and good luck in Chinese, while white is used for funerals. The food is also prepared ceremoniously based on the calendar and events. There are also special meals that are prepared for the wealthy, rich and rulers.Education and labor are more emphasized since they are seen as means to wealth and success. This is passed on from generatio n to generation with its virtues. The family is one organization that the Asians respect. Many siblings live together in harmony and respect with shared responsibilities and duties that keep cordial relations. Common decisions are made and all favor the family values and virtues (Moore, 1998, p.147).Africa is renowned for its rich culture that attracts many tourists to the region. The numerous ethnic tribes and groups make the region enriched with true traditions that are large(p) to change. Africa can be broadly divided into Afro-Asiatic, Niger-Congo, Nilo-Saharan, and Khoisan. Art, music, and religion characterize culture in Africa (Le Blanc, forefront Lowe, 2000).Many Africans believe in traditional religion though most have transformed to Muslims and Christians due to civilization but many have believed in superstitions and black magic. They believe in team work and family values and respect for the elders and a society that is male dominated (Miller, 2007, p.124). They have r ich traditional foods prepared during ceremonies and for the wealthy, rich and authorities. The emphasis mainly on respect of elders specially male elders and take them as gods. Apart from some few differences the Asian and African culture may some time be view as alike.Asian DressingMany have long misinterpreted the clothing of Asia as unfashionable and obsolete. With the Japanese donning a kimono or other long robes with wide sleeves and the Chinese having the Mao suits that were of dull colors, then one would conclude that Asia is no place for fashion. However, traditions have been kept and civilization has not been allowed to change them (Winter, 2002). Ancient Chinese dressing included simply a tunic or jacket then known as a san with a pair of wobbly trousers known as the ku. This outfit was modified with age to include the mandrian collar to suit as fashion. For customary occasions, the higher class and wealthy, e.g. the emperor and court of nobles, wore robes, long sleeved gratuitous fitting garment that was tied at the front and were made from silk. Other garments included the dragon robe pinched by the ruling class.The clothing of the emperor who commanded a lot of respect had unique outstanding colors such as yellow to show dignity but never had numerous decorations. groundbreaking day China has become a bit westernized but with a Chinese taste. For women, the cheongsam dress is very trendy, but the Mao suit was imposed and is the common daily wear for many Chinese. Japanese systems were the same as China with them preferring robes and tunics. The poor women wore loose skirts and men wore loose linen shirts. The loose shirt was the kosode and the long trousers were the hakama. The Japanese robe was tied with an obi or sash around the waist. The Japanese have several traditional dress wears including the ho, kinu, haori, and katiginu. Beauty and design are much emphasized in the dresses. The major style of dress in the south Asian culture is the sari, while the East and Southeast Asia there is the sarong of Indonesia, the qipao of China, ao dai of Vietnam and the kimono of Japan.African DressingAfrican clothing is mainly based on weaving, tie and dye, batiks, and industrial prints. The dress of Africa has been influenced mainly by the religion the region follows. This has made multilateral interactions among the Muslims and Christians. According to Hansen, 2004 in the article The world in dress Anthropological perspectives on clothing, fashion, and culture explains that Africa ha two wide dressing cultures (Le Blanc, forefront Lowe, 2000). These are based on decorations of clothes at the west, central and several regions of East Africa and the other is tailored western look alike attires found in the Southern Africa and the remaining part of East Africa (Hendrickson, 1999). Loose gowns for the men and women known as the boubou cloth wrappers and head tie are the common dressing. The Buna in the Yoruba land is more speci fic especially in Nigeria, but women and men wear different colors and patterns. During marriage the women wear black while for hunters they mix the colors of white and black which are stripped. The chiefs have reservations for the red impersonate clothing which is decorated with beautiful patterns. As for color, white signifies spiritual occasions. The clothes made by weaving include bogolanfini, aso, ake, kuba, raffia, and kente. These are made with black, white and brown motifs.Comparison and ContrastThe clothing styles will always be different in the size, how, where, and when worn in the two regions. The veil and head wrapping in Egypt and Kuwait is the head cover for rich women makes them look wealthy, rich, famous, and honored but for those in lower status never cover their head. For those in Egypt covering the head is for those in the lower status and not the rich and wealthy. This brings the difference in opinions to those in Kuwait, it uphold the wealthy status, while the Egyptians think of it as being a good and committed Muslims who preserves the status of a woman (Hendrickson, 1999).The Japans kimono gives the clear difference between gender and life cycle stages and the status. For the high status people their kimono sleeves are shorter as compared to those in the lower status. For the men the sleeves are equally short but for the women especially the unmarried their kimono sleeves are very long and for the married they are short like those of men (Hardin, 1997). For instance, the furisode kimono is made of fine silk of intricate colors and designs worn by a girl in her mid ages when not married signifying marital availability. Those in the African culture do not consider whether one is married or not but the gender.In wedding occasions in the South Korean side, traditional gowns are worn to retain the cultural tastes this is common to the East and Southeast Asia where a white gown is used like the western culture but in India white clothing ind icate widowhood. In Africa, the Moroccans wear a Berber costume, a long robe, accompanied by silver jewelry that is common in the pastoralists from the rural mountains. In the south, South Africans wear animal skin as traditional wear during the marriage ceremony.The long loose clothing is common in African and Asian cultures worn by both men and women. An explanation is that they cover their body not to expose their body structure. This preserves the traditional value of secrecy of the human body. The Nigerian women have also taken to wearing the tunic from the South Asia (Hardin, 1997).Dressing in Africa does not emphasize the class like the Asian culture where class matters. For example, in India the caste system dictates different dress codes to the members of the different castes. However, in both regions, status is considered.Religion makes the people in both regions wear the same. For Muslims they are order to wear robes and head covers in all regions. The veil which is the common religious wear has been named different names in the two cultures, some call it the hijab, others chador, burqah, or bui-bui. This is mostly worn by Muslims women not only in the region but throughout the world. Because of its visibility, the veil is the emblem of Muslim identity and the difference in Orientalizing approaches both in scholarship and popular media, serving as the symbol par excellence of womens subordination (Hansen, 2004). The African culture has more preference to cotton fiber fabrics while the Asian cultures silk garments are preferred. Most of the garments in the South Asian culture are silky while the tie and dye, weave, and batiks of African culture are made from cotton (Le Blanc Van Lowe, 2000). Some of the garments in the East Asia are made of weaving like the sarong.Much of the Asian clothing often looks like uniforms while in African dressing the clothing is diverse and range in color design and style. Reacting to wearing uniforms, young Japanese b uy crafty things and fashion conscious youth use cuteness as a dress and adornment strategy to counter the norms of uniformity (Hansen, 2004). African culture of dressing does not come in uniforms and emphasis is laid on dressing for the occasions.Both cultures have distinct dressing for different occasion which can be state to be common throughout the world, and this is accompanied by covering of the head by women which is more emphasized in the Asian culture. This ensures that the woman remains obscure and dignified according to the culture.ConclusionDressing in todays world has been revolutionized and people have moved from traditional wear to western fashion. As a result, the traditions have been eroded and traditional wear forgotten. People converge at beauty pageants to showcase the latest designs and styles of dressing that have been modified to suit different needs. Those who are strong in their traditions have continued to keep and uphold its virtues and values. Culture an d dressing has been complicated in the recent past as cultures, traditions have merged, and the only concept that exists is the national dresses. Past traditions and cultures in terms of dressing also proved to be gender biased since they were strict on women but now women have resisted them and transformed, but one thing is for sure traditional African and Asian cultures were rich and valued.Reference(s)Derber, C. (2000). The pursuit of attention power and ego in general life. New York Oxford University Press US. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//books.google.ca/books?id=OXmOXQPc6eECpg=PA63lpg=PA63dq=Women+%2Bclothing+%2Battention+%2Bdress+-islamsource=blots=za_iogc9KCsig=EHnPXyq-wPd7rj83ImFs9p4-czohl=enei=rgEXSo2NKJiQmAeqlvDtDAsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=4v=onepageq=dressf=false.Good, I. (2001). Archaeological textiles A review of current research. Annual Review of Anthropology,Vol. 30,p.209-226.Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=87511152Fmt=4 clientId=74379RQT=309VName=PQD.Hansen, T.K. (2004).THE WORLD IN pose Anthropological Perspectives on Clothing, Fashion, and Culture. Annual Review of Anthropology, Vol.33,p.369-392. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=749595631Fmt=3clientId=74379RQT=309VName=PQD.Hardin, K. L. (1997). Cloth that does not die. American Anthropologist, Vol.99, issue.1 pp.216.Hendrickson, H. (1999). Consuming Fashion Adorning the Transnational Body. Anthropological Quarterly,Vol.72 Issue.3, p.149-151. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=46950134Fmt=3clientId=74379RQT=309VName=PQD.Le Blanc, D. Van Lowe, C. R. (2000). Clothing as a cultural Expression African fashion Issue briefs, TransAfrica Forum. Washington DC. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//docs.google.com/viewer?a=vq=cache-BiYNe4cQecJwww.afrisonet.net/Documents/clothing_issuebrief0600.pdf+Clothing+as+a+cultural+expression+African+Fashionhl=engl=kepid=blsrcid=ADGEESglBDHqrYbIPF2ChfoueKZcjN a1hWW96rzZbE4KmmQTSpztUyg8pa3XK6cwlGB2hqvH0THzA4HUoZX619b5y86WADR5xXyluL-q_xo5kZgbYA6Ewdks9O6xjn4LVcYsJLJcqSmFsig=AHIEtbTnzOxS5OS14W1LNJvnvJSZBfn60w.Miller, B. D. (2007). Cultural anthropology. Ed.4. Boston Allyn Bacon.Moore, A. (1998). Cultural Anthropology The Field Study of Human Beings. Ed.2, Michigan Rowman Littlefield. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//books.google.co.ke/books?id=qvsrgl91TFsCprintsec=frontcoverdq=Cultural+anthropologycd=5v=onepageq=f=false.Winter, M. (2002).Fashion statement. Human Ecology,Vol.30 Issue.1,p.11. Retrieved March 4, 2010, from http//proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=114399732Fmt=4clientId=74379RQT=309VName=PQD.

A New Look at Flagstaff :: Personal Narratives College Essays

A New Look at Flagstaff Flagstaff has always been an exciting and interesting town to me. When I persistent to go to college here, I valued to go someplace with a fun outdoorsy atmosphere where on that point would always be new stuff to do. I weigh I have found the excitement and adventure I was looking for in the somewhat small and comfortable city of Flagstaff. Through my new birth and my time in Flagstaff, I have found myself to be a stronger and well rounded person. When I found out the assignment of doing something new in Flagstaff, I was excited because it gave me a chance to make myself get out of my comfort zone and try something different. I first decided that I wanted to go hiking, but then decided it was too cold. By Sunday night, the weekend was almost over and I still hadnt done anything in all different. So I decided to be bold and ask a new friend, Jim, from class if he wanted to go out and do something. At least I would be doing something with someone I dont usually hang out with, so that would give me something to write about. Jim and I decided we would go bowling, which I actually hadnt done since Ive been in Flagstaff. We got to the bowling alley and found that many people had the same idea of what to do on a Sunday night. The bowling lanes in Flagstaff are much different than the lanes in my home town. The lanes here are small and there are about 15 of them. There is also only one bowling alley in all of Flagstaff, which is weird because in my home town, we always have to choose between ten different places to go when we decide to go bowling. Since there were so many people at the lanes, the man told us it would be a two hour wait for a lane. So we decided not to wait, and to simply find something else to do. Jim and I ended up departure to the pool hall in town, which I didnt even know existed.

Interior Design Considerations for Retirement Homes :: Place Descriptive Essays

Interior Design Considerations for Retirement Homes At the Waterford, youll find the freedom to create the lifestyle youve always wanted. Each morning youll awake to a colorful palette of possibilities from which to paint your day. Enjoy the quiet, muted tones of solitude in your spacious apartment, knowing friends and an attentive staff are impede by. Youll always begin a wealth of things to do right at your fingertips keeping you as active as you want to be. The Waterford proudly presents a staff of experienced, detail-oriented professionals at your service. From our administrator director to our culinary chef, to our housekeepers and wait staff, youll find warm and friendly people truly concerned about you. The Waterford offers you flexibility and options so you can paint your years with the colors of life (A Place for Mom, 2002).With an environment that seems so appealing, why is there such a negative stigma placed on retirement homes/communities or care for homes? The idea of spending our retirement in a treat home is perceived by our society as the most undesirable of options. tether out of one hundred Americans over the age of 65 suffer from depression (National Institute of Mental Health, 2000). A study done at the University of Rhode Island account that 11% of the residents in the nursing homes examined were suffering from depression (Brown, Lapane, & Luisi, 2002). Another study done at Columbia University reported that 44.2% of the nursing home residents tested showed about symptom of depression with 14.4% of the residents experiencing serious depression (Teresi, Abrams, Holmes, Ramirez, & Eimicke, 2001). Why is the depression rate among the elderly almost four times greater among those living in nursing homes? It could be the work of chance in that many of the residents in nursing homes already have a mental health problem that has made them unable(p) to provide for themselves. Having prior difficulties could make these residents more susce ptible to the normal adjustment problems that come along with relocating to a new living environment. Or perhaps it is because the environments nursing homes create are not specifically geared towards the needs of the elderly. With about 5% of people over 65 living in nursing homes this is a serious problem, whether the resident is healthy or not, that should be demanding more attention (Hoyer, Rybash, & Roodin, 1999).There are many factors that could contribute to depression among the aging including illness, loss of close family members, or financial problems.