Advancement in Construction Technology Essay

1.1General Background Back in the day before there were computers the whole construction process was done by pen and paper from the bidding process to the actual drawings themselves. Since the innovation of the computer and interactive software these processes have gotten much more efficient. There have been many programs that ease the construction process. Such programs include, drawing software (AutoCad), spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel), programs to assist with estimating (Plan Swift), planning and scheduling software (Microsoft Project), the internet as well as e-mail. There have always been minor updates on these programs but have mostly remained with the same basic purpose. Within the last 5 years a new state of the art program developed by AutoDesk using 3D Modeling has been integrated into many large jobs in Canada while in the USA it has been used regularly for about 10 years. This program is called Building Information Modeling and for short, BIM. There are many companies that do not know about BIM or have heard of it but have never used it or seen it being used. 1.2Specific Background The purpose of this report is to inform people within the construction industry about the available software and the importance of 3D modeling throughout the entire construction process. Hopefully this report will convince many people to incorporate BIM into their projects more often. Also, students should be learning about BIM in college programs and should also be an elective within high schools along with AutoCad. 1.3Thesis Statement Can 3D Modeling technology improve production control in the construction process? 1.4Explanation of Methodology Throughout this technical report, research on the rise of 3D Modeling will be analyzed and broken down to the reader through secondary research obtained from various online newspaper and magazine articles and academic articles recarding the subject. This research will be used to identify the need for 3D Modeling within the construction industry. It will then prove that the process behind 3D modeling will improve production from initial budgeting to maintaining the finished product. The primary research that will be used within this report will be presented through an online survey and face-to-face interviews with a number of industry professionals. The opinions and experiences of these professionals will be used within this report to support the presented question or establish background information regarding the subject. Each of the interviewees will be presented with the same set of questions in order to properly compare and compile the data received by them. 2.0Secondary Research Review 2.1Building Information Modeling: Safety Benefits & Opportunities, Professional Safety In this article Rajendran and Clarke argue the benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Health and Safety. They also mention several ways it helps with the overall construction process. The article starts of by defining BIM and its processes and Stating that it is becoming more popular within the architect, construction and engineering industries. They write that BIM allows builders to foresee any complications that may occur even before the construction process begins. They list major benefits BIM has regarding the construction process. There are many figures portraying how BIM can be used to assist with site layout and identify potential risks. Concluding this article they state that BIM had many benefits that can improve construction safety (Rajendran & Clarke, 2011). I will use parts of this article to argue the importance of BIM in the construction process. The major issue I am focussing on is how it will improve the construction process and prevent further complications. This article has some good points on benefits of using BIM regarding my topic. 2.2Implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Construction In this article Rowlinson, Collins, Tuuli and Jia, analyse the impirical impacts of Building Information Modeling (BIM) into construction. They review two cases where BIM was used successfully. In the first case the process started traditionally and after many issues causing delays, BIM was implemented and with the help of a BIM team they created the model and resolved the issues quickly. In the second case the BIM was implemented from the beginning and the process was much smoother and saved time. They find that BIM allows companies to deal with RFI’s (Requests for Information) much easier. Also, states that BIM allows builders to see conflicts between each parties system and resolve them before they clash on site and delays the project. On concluding this article, the authors find that success alone is not a sufficient driver for managers to justify implementing BIM (Rowlinson, Collins, Tuuli & Yunyan, 2010). I will use this article to strengthen my argument that the use of BIM will help with production control within the construction process. This article clearly outlines the issue I am trying to prove; BIM can make the construction process run smoother. This is a very important article to my research and has a lot of useable content. 2.3Building Information Modeling (BIM): Trends, Benefits, Risks, and Challenges for the AEC Industry. Leadership & Management In Engineering Azhar starts off this article by suggesting that building information modeling (BIM) has potential to reduce project costs and delivery as well as increase productivity. He states the building information model after construction is completed can be used for operation and maintenance. He then lists a number of applications of BIM such as, fabrication/shop drawings, estimating, sequencing and conflict detection. The results of two secondary source surveys says, 82% of BIM users believed that it had a positive impact on the company’s productivity, 79% of users indicate improved project outcomes and less RFIs. He then proceeds to report on 4 case studies illustrating cost and time savings. There are many data tables with different information, in one of them there is an analysis of different projects return on investment using BIM. He also states several potential risks and future complications related to BIM. On concluding this article Azhar suggests that the increasing use of BIM will likely enhance collaboration and reduce fragmentation in the industry (Azhar, 2010). I will use this article to help prove that BIM will help with the overall construction process including the start up. I will also use this back up the use of BIM to save money and make a considerable return. 2.4Construction industry goes high-tech In this magazine article the author Michael Douchette begins by introducing Autodesk which is the company that created AutoCAD and BIM. Both are industry revolutionary programs. He states that AutoCAD was a big step in the drafting works and BIM is quickly finding its way into being the industry standard. A primary source says that all stakeholders are able to interact on a 3D model (referring to BIM). Autodesk is working with institutions to make sure students are trained in the new (BIM) technology. He explains BIM allows designers, architects and engineers to identify deficiencies early in the process. Douchette then explains what Building Information Modelling (BIM) is. He says it’s not for only buildings or infrastructure. It is usable through the whole process of the project from Design through construction. Referring to a Smart Market Report he states that more than 70% of non-users think that competitors are using BIM. Everyone within the process will be using BIM. Trades workers will use a specific layer of the software and be able to make changes in real time. He concludes by stating, the future of construction is BIM (Doucette, 2012). I will use this to help improve my argument that it BIM is an aid to the construction process. This article has a lot of point referring to training new students to use BIM and in turn that proves that it is going to be a major part in the construction process in the near future.

Caring of Parents

Caring for Elderly Parents How to care for elderly parents is a major concern of many Foreign Service families. Our concerns mirror those of other American families, but how to ensure good health care, find the right living situation, and handle legal questions is often complicated for Foreign Service families by being posted abroad. The distance involved makes it harder to get information and help so contingency planning is essential. Often Foreign Service families only have short visits during R & R or on home leave and hate to spend the precious time with their parents talking about serious business or unpleasant possibilities. Or we may be caught up in hectic preparations for an overseas assignment and not want to take the time to do contingency planning with parents. While it is difficult to discuss the issues of aging, the family who has discussed the options and agreed on plans will be better able to handle whatever happens. It will be worth the time taken, if there is an emergency. The ideal situation is when the parents take control of their own situations and make decisions in advance of an emergency. They should investigate the types of retirement options and decide which is most appropriate, make informed decisions about life-sustaining medical care, and make sure that documents, instructions, and powers of attorney are available to those who must take responsibility in an emergency. The American Association of Retired Persons recommends that elderly people use a document locator list (scroll to bottom of this page) to make sure their papers are in order. This list can then be given to the person(s) who will be responsible for them should an emergency arise. Going through the list with your parents should ensure that their wishes are understood. Communicating with Elderly Parents Talking with our elderly parents about their living situations and the possible need for change is not always easy. A successful conversation depends to an extent upon the relationship we have with the parent, as well, of course, as on the parent's mental, emotional and physical condition. While many people put off serious conversations to avoid conflict or awkwardness, both parent and adult child may lose an opportunity for closeness, understanding, access to information that may affect the decision, and optimum peace of mind. To the extent possible, talk with your elderly parents gently and honestly about their wishes, their abilities and their options. Far more often than not, these conversations are helpful and put the adult child in a better position to make decisions later when the parent may not be able to do so. The following are suggestions for conversations with your elderly parent: * Share your own feelings, and reassure the parent that you will support them and can be depended upon to help them solve their problems. * Help the parent to retain whatever control is possible  in making his or her own decisions. Respect and try to honor their wishes wherever feasible. * Encourage the smallest change possible  at each step, so that the parent is more able to adjust to the change. Educate yourself on legal, financial and medical matters  that pertain to your parent as background for your conversations, including current knowledge on the aging process. * Respect your own needs  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ be honest with your parents about your time and energy limits. If this kind of conversation seems impossible or the situation and relationship with the elderly parent become overwhelming, professional counseling may be very helpful. You may also consider using the Department of State's resources to appro ach this delicate issue somewhat indirectly. Filling out FIVE WISHES for yourself and sharing your decisions with your parents may encourage them to open up on the subject. You may also wish to raise the subject of long-term care insurance as a practical matter. (For more information about FIVE WISHES and Long-Term Care Insurance, see below). When a Lifestyle Change May Be Necessary Physicians and geriatric social workers warn that there are a number of danger signs that indicate an elderly person needs extra help or a change in living arrangement. Any marked change in personality or behavior should be heeded. However, no change in lifestyle should be made without discussions with the elderly person, other family members, and doctors or other health professionals. Danger Signals * Sudden weight loss  could be an indication that the elderly person is simply not eating or not preparing foods. * Failure to take medication or over-dosing  may indicate confusion, forgetfulness, or a misunderstanding of the doctor's instructions. * Burns or injury marks  may indicate physical problems involving general weakness, forgetfulness, or a possible misuse of alcohol. Deterioration of personal habits  such as infrequent bathing and shampooing, not shaving, or not wearing dentures could be the result of either mental or physical problems. * Increased car accidents  can indicate slowed reflexes, poor vision, physical weakness, or general inability to handle a vehicle. * General forgetfulness  such as not paying bills, missing appointments, or consistently forgetting name, address, phone number, and meal times could be a signal. * Extreme suspiciousness  could indicate some thought disorder. Your parents thinking that their neighbors, friends, family, doctor, and lawyer are all conspiring against them would be an example. Intense ungrounded fears about dire consequences may be a danger signal. * A series of small fires  could be caused by dozing off, forgetting to turn off the stove or appliances, or carelessness with matches. They may indicate blackouts or dizzy spells. * Bizarre behavior of any kind  could be a warning sign. This behavior could be dressing in heavy gloves and overcoat in 90 degree weather or going outside without shoes when it's snowing. Watch for uncharacteristic actions or speech. Disorientation of a consistent nature  may indicate a need for help. Examples include not knowing who one is, where one is, who the family is, or talking to people who are not there. Elder Care Options If you see danger signals in your parent's behavior, it is important to discuss the changes and do some research. (See IQ: Information Quest below for information about the Department of State's free resource referral service. ) There are many housing options available to the elderly. Choosing the best one will depend on the elderly person's preference, age, health, and financial condition. Aging in Place Under this option, the elderly person continues to live in his/her own apartment. Many elderly people live in Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs), apartment buildings, condominiums, or cooperatives not designed as retirement communities but where at least 50 percent of the residents are 62 years old or older. These buildings often have amenities such as grocery stores, pharmacies, limousine service, or shopping services. Recent technological advances often make aging in place easier: Velcro asteners, lightweight wheelchairs, devices to control appliances and dial telephone numbers. There is even a â€Å"walk-in bathtub† for people who have difficulty climbing into an ordinary bathtub. Many services are available to help the elderly person stay in his/her home. Information about them can be obtained from contacting IQ: Information Quest (see below) or  your local Area Agency on Aging. * Home care services  are available in many communities, pro viding appropriate, supervised personnel to help older persons with either health care (giving medications, changing dressings, catheter care, etc. or personal care (bathing, dressing, and grooming). * Meals and transportation  are available to older people to help them retain some independence. Group or home-delivered meal programs help ensure an adequate diet. Meals-On-Wheels programs are available in most parts of the United States. A number of communities offer door-to-door transportation services to help older people get to and from medical facilities, community facilities, and other services. * Adult day care  is similar to child day care. The elderly person goes to a community facility daily or 2 or 3 days per week. Activities include exercise programs, singing, guest lectures, and current events discussions. Cost varies and there are often long waiting lists at such centers. * Respite care  brings a trained person into the home to give the full-time caregiver time off to get a haircut, visit the dentist, or take a vacation. Service is generally offered through area Departments of Social Services and is based on a sliding fee scale. Other Housing Options There are several types of retirement communities that provide living arrangements and services to meet the needs of both independent seniors and those who need assistance. Large hotel corporations are in this field and other facilities are set up for members of a certain organization (retired military, Elks, etc. ). It is important when investigating these housing options to understand completely the services provided and the cost. * Adult congregate communities  are designed for the fully able-bodied, 55 and older. Residents buy co-ops or condominiums and pay a monthly fee for grass mowing, leaf raking, and snow shoveling. A pay-as-you-go medical center is on site and a nurse is on duty 24 hours a day to make home visits in emergencies. Leisure World is the most famous example of an adult congregate ommunity. * Assisted living communities  are rental retirement communities for independent seniors who need some assistance. A homelike atmosphere, three meals a day, maid, linen, and laundry service, availability of a registered nurse, and many personal care services are provided in the all-inclusive rent. * Rental retirement communities  with fee-f or-service nursing units charge residents an entrance fee plus a substantial monthly rent. When the need for nursing care arises, residents pay an extra daily fee and stay in a nursing unit, usually located on site or nearby. Life care or continuing care communities  provide a continuum of care from independent living to nursing home care on the premises. The individual must be independent when s/he enters the community. These communities require a substantial entrance fee and monthly service fee. Residents get one meal a day in a dining room, maid service, linen service, maintenance, transportation to shopping and cultural events, travel planning, and a pull cord to an emergency nurse. If nursing care is needed, it is provided at no extra cost. Personal care homes (board and care)  are licensed in many communities to provide shelter, supervision, meals, and personal care to a small number of residents. * Subsidized housing for the elderly  is an option for the elderly poor in reasonably good health. Subsidized by Department of Housing and Urban Development, income limits apply. No round-the-clock care is provided but nurses come in to check blood pressure and assess a resident's functioning. Residents take meals in a dining room and may have use of a library, recreation area, or beauty shop. Nursing Facilities If the elderly person is not capable of independent living, a nursing home may be the appropriate option. Nursing homes offer two levels of care – skilled nursing and intermediate care – depending on the patient's needs. Most nursing homes offer both levels of care on a single site. * Skilled nursing facilities  provide 24-hour nursing services for people who have serious health care needs but do not require the intense level of care provided in a hospital. Rehabilitation services may also be provided. * Intermediate care facilities  provide less extensive health care than skilled nursing facilities. Nursing and rehabilitation services are provided but not on a 24-hour basis. These facilities are for people who cannot live alone but need a minimum of medical assistance and help with personal and/or social care. Paying for Long-Term Care It is important to understand the different types of insurance that are available to older people. Many people believe that Medicare will cover long-term care needs. It will not. Medicare Medicare is a Federal health insurance program which helps defray many of the medical expenses of most Americans over the age of 65. Medicare has two parts: (Part A) Hospital Insurance  helps pay the cost of inpatient hospital care. The number of days in the hospital paid for by Medicare is governed by a system based upon patient diagnosis and medical necessity for hospital care. Once it is no longer medically necessary for the person to remain in the hospital, the physician will begin the discharge process. If the person or the family disagrees with this decision, they may appeal to the state's Peer Review Organization. Medicare  does not  pay for custodial care or nursing home care. It will, however, cover up to 60 days in a nursing home as part of convalescence after hospitalization. (Part B) Medical Insurance  pays for many medically necessary doctors' services, outpatient services, and some other medical services. Enrollees pay a monthly premium. Medicaid Medicaid is a joint federal-state health care program for people with a low income. The program is administered by each state and the type of services covered differs. There are strict income requirements so it is necessary for the person to â€Å"spend down† all income and assets to poverty levels before becoming eligible. Medicaid is the major payer of nursing home care. The Medicaid requirement to â€Å"spend down† all income and assets created a great hardship for the spouse of a person needing nursing home care. Changes in the Medicaid rules now allow the spouse to keep a monthly income and some assets, including the primary residence. The amounts allowed change, so you must check for current levels. Other Insurance Why buy other insurance? The purchase of additional insurance gives the policy holder access to a greater choice of facilities without dipping into additional financial resources. Medigap  is the name given to rivately-purchased supplemental health insurance. It is designed to help cover some of the gaps in Medicare coverage but does not cover long-term care. Study Medigap policies carefully to be sure they provide the protection needed and do not duplicate other health insurance. Long-Term Care Insurance  is a private insurance that is usually either an indemnity policy or p art of an individual life insurance policy. An indemnity policy pays a set amount per day for nursing home or home health care. Under the life insurance policy, a certain percentage of the death benefit is paid for each month the policyholder requires long-term care. Policies are priced differently depending on the age of the policyholder, the deductible periods chosen, and indemnity value or duration of benefits. Information about other long-term insurance policies are available from: The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) Retiree Liaison 2101 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20037 Tel:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-338-4045  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  , ext. 528 Fax: 202-338-6820 E-mail:  [email  protected] org http://www. afsa. org American Foreign Service Protective Association (AFSPA) 1716 N Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 Tel:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-833-4910 Fax: 202-883-4918 ttp://www. afspa. org As with Medigap health insurance, it is important to read the policy carefully and understand its restrictions before purchasing. Who Can Help? IQ: Information Quest (formerly LifeCare? ) IQ: Information Quest is a free 24-hour/ 7 days per week counseling, education and referral service t hat can help Department of State employees find the programs, providers, information, and resources they need to manage personal and professional responsibilities. IQ: Information Quest makes referrals, not recommendations. IQ: Information Quest counselors will help etermine what services are needed and available in any U. S. locality and refer to appropriate providers. In addition to other services, they provide referrals in the area of adult care services (anywhere in the U. S. ), including case management, emergency and respite care, home health care, long-distance care giving and legal and financial issues. Their web site features information on caring for an aging loved one, discussing caregiving options with your loved one, adult care information worksheet, caregivers of older adults, managing work while caring for your loved one, and geriatric care management services. IQ: Information Quest will also provide an â€Å"Eldercare Kit† upon request which features caregiving guidance, checklists, and resources information, as well as a few useful practical items such as a pill sorter, night light and jar opener. Permanent employees of the Department of State, The U. S. Agency for International Development, the Department of Justice, the Department of Labor, and FMAs overseas are eligible to use IQ: Information Quest. For the Department of State, this includes both Civil Service and Foreign Service employees serving at any Department assignment location nationwide and worldwide. Other employees working for the Department are not covered at this time (contractors, Foreign Service Nationals, PITs, PSCs). Spouses, children or others who are members of the employee's immediate household may use IQ: Information Quest. They verify eligibility by providing the name and date of birth (month and day) of the eligible employee. Employees of agencies other than the Department of State should check with their headquarters for guidance in how to contact and use IQ: Information Quest services. IQ: Information Quest Tel:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  1-800-222-0364  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  or  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  1-888-222-0364  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  for the hearing impaired http://www. worklife4you. com For access to the passworded area of the site, contact your agency's HR Bureau. The Employee Consultation Service (ECS) The Employee Consultation Service (ECS) at the Department of State should be the first stop for Foreign Service members with eldercare concerns. The clinical social workers offer brief counseling and help in coordinating an evaluation and assessment anywhere in the United States. ECS social workers act as a liaison in providing appropriate and necessary services for the elderly. All services are free and confidential. In Washington, make an appointment for a personal consultation; from overseas write or cable for advice. ECS also conducts support groups for employees and their families who are responsible for an aging relative. The groups meet at the State Department to share issues, resources, and approaches to the problems that arise as an elderly person declines, including the issue of emotional stress that occurs for family members watching such decline. Employee Consultation Service (M/MED/ECS) Columbia Plaza, Room H246 Washington, DC 20520 Tel:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-663-1815 FAX: 202-663-1456 Email:  [email  protected] gov The Administration on Aging (AoA) The Administration on Aging (AoA) is part of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. It was set up to â€Å"remove barriers to the economic and personal independence of older persons and to assure the availability of a range of appropriate community and family based services for older persons in social or economic need. AoA supports a network of the state and  Area Agencies on Aging  that reinforce and supplement the daily support that the elderly receive from family, friends, and neighbors. Administration on Aging Department of Health and Human Services 330 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20201 Tel:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-619-0724 http://www. aoa. gov To get information on eldercare servi ces in a particular community, contact the Area Agency on Aging. One can locate a specific state agency on aging through the Eldercare Locator Service via telephone (  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  1-800-677-1116  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  ) or the website at  http://www. ldercare. gov. The  Eldercare Locator Service  is sponsored by the AoA and operated by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging. National Association of Area Agencies on Aging 927 15th Street, NW Washington, DC 20005 Tele:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-296-8130 http://www. n4a. org Services provided by Area Agencies on Aging include information and referral, homemaker/home health aides, transportation, congregate and home delivered meals, chore and other supportive services. Types of services available vary in each community based upon needs and resources. Private Geriatric Care Managers Private geriatric care managers are professional social workers and nurses who assist the elderly and their families by assessing need, coordinating services, and monitoring care for a fee. They are particularly helpful when long-distance care giving is necessary. Fees vary and are sometimes covered by Medicare or private insurance. The Department of State's Employee Consultation Service or IQ: Information Quest, the local Area Agency on Aging, and community agencies can provide referrals nationwide. If the older person has been hospitalized, hospital discharge planners can also provide information and referrals for after-care. Services Offered by the Private Sector Some private companies have set up programs to help their employees with eldercare. Foreign Service spouses who work in the private sector should investigate any eldercare options offered by their employers. These programs can include seed money for eldercare services, flexible work schedules for caregivers, subsidies for eldercare expenses, unpaid leave for up to a year, referral services, inter-generational day care centers (for both the elderly and children), geriatric assessment and case management, and group rates for long-term care insurance. Unfortunately, many of the services provided by companies require that the elderly person meet the tax-law definition of a dependent. This increases the burden for families whose elderly relatives are not financially dependent or who are not living with the employee. Eldercare in the Foreign Service Putting Parents on Your Orders Foreign Service employees may request that their elderly relative(s) (including step parents and legally adopted parents) be approved as an eligible family member and added to their Post Assignment Travel Orders for an overseas assignment. The employee must complete an OF-126 Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report. This form can be found on the Department of State Infoforms with instructions on completion. Each new OF-126 replaces the old OF-126, therefore all blocks must be filled out each time a new OF-126 is done. The new OF-126 must be forwarded to the employee's personnel technician in HR/CDA/ASD, Room 2419, Truman Building (Main State). Travel orders can not be authorized for newly-acquired eligible family members until the personnel technician receives the OF-126 form. Along with a completed OF-126 form, the officer must prove that the relative is at least 51 percent dependent for support (subject to review and approval per 6 FAM 117; USAID employees should also see Supplement 1B to HB 32, Chapter 1). The officer must quantify that he/she has provided more than 51% of support by submitting an affidavit or notarized statement testifying to that fact. This is termed passing the â€Å"financial support test. † An explanation regarding the parent's residency is also required, with an explanation as to why the application is being made to add the parent to the travel orders. Other documentary evidence may be required by the employee's agency. These documents are attached to the completed OF-126 form and sent to the officer's agency as specified on the forms. Requests are reviewed for approval by a Personnel OF-126 Committee. Employees of the Department of State can obtain advice on how to put your parents on your orders through the Career Development and Assignments (CDA) division of the Bureau of Human Resources. Ask for an Assignments Support (CDA/AS) officer. Employees of other agencies should contact their HR representative. See section below, Taking an Elderly Relative to Post, for details regarding official government support. Bringing Parents to Post Who Are Not on Your Orders If your relatives are not financially dependent on you, they may come to post as members of the employee's household, but will receive no official support from the U. S. Government. No official support translates into no access to the U. S. embassy health unit, no airfare or allowance payments in the case of evacuation from post, and no diplomatic status with the host country. Parents who come to live overseas for an extended period of time should consider having additional medical insurance (Medicare does not cover costs related to care overseas). In addition, parents should also maintain Air Medical Evacuation Insurance. A list of companies that provide this insurance can be found on theDepartment of State Consular Affairs  web site. Family Medical Leave Act and Family-Friendly Leave If you think you may need to care for an elderly relative, be sure to check the provisions of the 1993 Family Leave Act on taking leave for this purpose and contact the a leave specialist in your agency. Department of State employees can contact a Department leave specialist in the Office of Employee Relations (HR/ER/WLP) about paid and unpaid leave at  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  202-261-8180  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  . Eldercare Emergency Visitation Travel (Eldercare EVT) In January 2001, the Eldercare Emergency Visitation Travel (Eldercare EVT) provision was implemented, permitting travel at government expense for employees and eligible spouses serving at an overseas post who need to assist parents in declining health. Eldercare EVT allows an employee two trips over a career to visit his or her parents. It is meant to support one mother and one father of the employee and of the eligible spouse. It does not mean a couple may pool their four eldercare visits to assist the parent(s) of only one member of the married couple. For more information, email the Family Liaison Office ([email  protected] gov) for a copy of â€Å"Questions and Answers on Eldercare Emergency Visitation Travel. † Taking an Elderly Relative to Post If elderly relatives are classified as eligible family members, they travel on diplomatic passports and have the same diplomatic immunity as a spouse or child. If not classified as such, elderly parents use tourist passports and do not have diplomatic status. Housing assignments are based on the number of official eligible family members the employee brings to post. Travel to and from post (with the exception of medical travel) is also available to all elderly parents designated as eligible family members. Elderly parents, regardless of their status, are  not covered  by the Foreign Service medical insurance program. While the use of post's health facilities is not promised as a benefit, these limited facilities are sometimes available depending on the location and an authorization by the Ambassador. The medical officer has the authority to refuse to provide services should a patient have a complicated problem that the physician is unable to treat. Employees may, however, ask the Health Unit for names of local physicians who can provide medical services for their elderly parent. This kind of assistance from the Health Unit may also be requested during the bidding process, to determine if a post has adequate local heath care providers to meet the medical needs of a parent. The Department of State Office of Medical Services has a brochure entitled  Medical Questions and Answers about Taking Your Parent Overseas. The brochure addresses the questions of obtaining prescription medicines overseas, high altitude climates and the elderly, health unit access, hospitalization overseas, and more. For a copy of the brochure or more information about medical questions related to taking your parent overseas, contact the Office of Medical Services, Foreign Programs (MED/FP). Because elderly parents are not covered under the Foreign Service medical insurance program, they also do not have access to embassy medical evacuation (medevac) services. Therefore, all parents coming to post for either a short or an extended period of time should purchase (and maintain) Air Medical Evacuation Insurance. A list of companies that provide this insurance can be found on the  Department of State Consular Affairs website. Medical Insurance It is essential that a parent going overseas, either officially or unofficially, have adequate medical insurance. Medicare only pays medical expenses in the United States, and in Canada and Mexico under certain very limited circumstances. The insurance companies listed below provide a variety of coverage and can be contacted for more information. Pay special attention to â€Å"age limit† noted in the policy. Clements and Company Under its GlobalCare Plus program, Clements and Company provides overseas major medical insurance, including full world-wide evacuation services. Coverage is offered for individuals as well as families. Substantial coverage is available at a reasonable cost. GlobalCare Plus is for policies lasting 6 months to one year. Clements also write policies for shorter-term travel (15 days to 4 months) through Patriot Travel Medical Insurance.

Conflicts of Interest Essay

There are many different definitions for Conflict of Interest, but most all mean the same or point to the same direction. When gifts, outside activities such as consulting, or financial and fiduciary interest have potential to create a certain decision or commitment with a business it is considered conflict of interest. Although there are numerous definitions the one adopted by the Institute of Medicine is helpful. It states, â€Å"A conflict of interest is a set of circumstances that creates a risk that professional judgment or actions regarding a primary interest will be unduly influenced by a secondary interest.† A conflict of interest usually occurs in a few common ways. One may be when an individual has the opportunity to use his/her partners’ position for personal financial gain or benefit a company in which the individual has a financial interest. Another way is when outside financial inappropriately influence the way in which an individual carries out his/her partners’ responsibilities. The last most common way of conflict of interest is when an individual’s outside interests otherwise may cause harm to partners’ reputation, staff, or patients. Conflicts of interest are often unavoidable and in many cases can be appropriately managed or reduced to an acceptable level. The people in the business should notice outside activity, interest, or interaction that has potential to create conflict. A few conflict of interest examples that are not acceptable are: Receiving a gift from a vendor. For example, Aaron works for a consulting firm. He accepts a large gift from a client in exchange for a discount on the services his employer provides. Being related to workers and giving them different treatment than the standard employee. For example, John works for a company that is managed by Uncle Steve. John reports to Uncle Steve to receive pay raises, promotions and other benefits that others in his same position do not receive. Doing freelance work for a competing company on the side. For example, Melissa works full time for Canon as a marketing director. In her spare time, she does freelance work for Nikon, helping to market their company with the skills she has learned from Canon. Richard Parsons is a part of two different businesses. â€Å"Because Parsons has a clear-cut fiduciary  duty to Citibank’s shareholders and must put their interest ahead of his or anyone else’s, his financial stake in Providence looks like a paradigm of a conflict of interest – not to mention the fact that Citibank, with all its problems, probably needs the full-time attention of the chairman of its board.† As stated in the text it is believed to be conflict of interest since Mr. Parsons is involved in both companies. Citibank however does not see it being a conflict of interest, and in fact says they would not allow â€Å"even the appearance† of conflict of interest. At times Providence needs financing and Citibank often lend them money. It is beli eved the two companies have such great relation because of Richard Parsons. Both businesses accept a deal they will benefit from, but is it the best deal Citi can have? Although Citibank believes there is no conflict of interest there may be. Both businesses can benefit from one deal, but Citi bank can negotiate a deal that they can benefit from more. Why don’t they negotiate a better deal though? If they do receive a better deal it will have the possibility of hurting Providence. Richard Parsons may not be a part of the deal, but the negotiators know who their boss is and do not want to make his business look bad. Because Richard Parsons is in both business it creates conflict of interest he does not intend for. It also creates unethical actions occur. Although they aren’t intentional they still happen. It is unethical for one person to affect both businesses, their deals, and their success. Keyon Communications is a broadband provider that is worth about only four cents. In 2009 the companies stocked climbed from four cents to two dollars and ten cents. The big question is how? Investors bid up the company’s stock and hope for it to take off. Of course the company believed it was a billion dollar company, but the truth is the stocked was fueled up by Joe Noel. Joe Noel was an analyst for Emerging Growth Research. He keeps a secret that Keyon awarded him seventy five thousand shares before he even began covering the company. The company’s stock eventually went down and showed that the company’s stock was truly only ninety five cents. The texts states that it is less certain whether there is conflict of interest or not, but it believe it is easier to determine in the case with Joe Noel and Keyon Communication. Joe Noel accepted a great amount of shares before he boosted their sock. Giving Joe Noel such shares moved him to invest in their company. One of the easiest conflict of interest to see is when a gift or  something is accepted from a vendor, and the vendor knows it will eventually benefit them. It was unethical for Joe Noel to boost their stock so much. It mislead others in thinking the company was better and worth more than it truly was. I believe people do not go around discussing or recommending specific stocks unless they are asked. It can be considered to be conflict of interest to discuss investments because someone can invest in a certain company to benefit someone or a busine ss. Friends may discuss stocks and investments and can create conflict of interest or can just simply recommend certain investments and discuss what may be best. If someone ask about your investments it is okay to discuss, but not to create deals that will be considered conflict of interest. Every company should have a policy to avoid conflict of interest. The policy must included many things but some main ones are: The employee owes a duty of loyalty to the company. At all times when on duty, without regard to time or place, employees should devote their full attention to the company’s business and their duties. An employee must avoid any activity that conflicts with their interest of the company. An employee must disclose a potential conflict in advance. Outside employment is prohibited unless approved by the employer in advance. The company will deny permission for such outside employment if at any point it adversely affects the employee’s ability, fitness, or readiness to work.

Integrating Business prespictive Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Integrating Business prespictive - Essay Example To bridge this gap that exist between the job graduate job seekers and potential employers the app we have initiated will be crucial. With this program, graduates can connect with incredible companies that are potential employers. This program is specially designed for graduates to come in contact with employers, and it’s open to all graduates possessing a great attitude and wanting a new job. The program will offer unemployed graduates with an opportunity like no other. Through this program graduates develop job skills, earn training and make fruitful business and personal connections (Horie, 2004). The program is distinctive in the sense that it gets the graduates working. Through this project, graduates earn the much-needed experience in the job market. This project gives the perfect opportunity for the graduates to enter the workforce as well as earning some money. Besides, our program enlightens graduates on the wages that the various industries offered for diverse careers. With this program, graduates earn valuable work experiences, training to enhance once employability and job skills. It also grows their resume and connections with relevant organizations that could be helpful in the future. Since our main objective to solve the unemployment among the graduates, intend to reduce the number of unemployed graduates every year. The problem of labour market mismatch in supply and demand will be our main objective (Wasmer & Weil, 2000). The project starts the process of connecting graduates with the job market right at the various institution of higher learning. Finalists are the key targets of the projects as well as freshly graduated individuals. To ensure equality, a similar number of graduates are picked from various institutions of higher learning and absorbed into the program every year. The main source of revenue for this project is the subscription from various graduates

Ancident and Medieval Cities History Question 2 Essay

Ancident and Medieval Cities History Question 2 - Essay Example For example, figure 3.4 shows a boat being towed across a river which means river traffic is being controlled by the administrators on land. This certainly shows that the city had grown to a point where traffic on the river could cause confusion and even traffic jams which had to be avoided in order to keep Rome running efficiently. Just as the Romans had created pathways for clean water coming into the city and pathways for removing dirty water out of the city, their river transport systems allowed more to be done in less time. Of course the input of more goods coming from around the empire meant that the Romans needed specific ways and better methods for storing the goods that were coming to them. To handle this, they created granaries like the ones shown in figure 3.5 which allowed food and grain to remain fresh for longer periods of time than before. As reported by Dunn et. al. (2006), technological innovations allow cities to build more and grow at a faster rate than other cities and the expansion of Rome not only created the requirement for improved technology, it also answered the requirements with improvements in technology. In fact, such innovations are just a few of the total innovations which the Romans called on to help them in growing their city in a stable manner. For example, the presence of social services such as a city wide fire management system and the ability of their engineers to build multistory houses and apartment buildings only helped in expanding the city (Wikipedia, 2007). At the same time, their engineers and technologists also helped in expanding the overall size of the Roman Empire with the creation of empire wide systems of management that were greatly helped by the Roman development of paved roads and tracks. These roads allowed not only the fast movement of troops and legions but also of goods

Marketing Strategies Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Marketing Strategies - Research Paper Example However, changes in technology will be the key trend that will affect the business. Express Vending LLC will keep track of the changing technology and adjust accordingly. Express Vending LLC will a family owned business that will provide high quality beverage and vending equipment for commercial purposes. The company will take advantage of the current situation in which customers lack high quality equipment at reasonable prices. Initially, the business will operate locally but will expand to global markets such as the European market. The business plans to approach the market by introducing unique products that are technology intensive. The company will offer three vending products; Sandwich Express, Fresh Juice Machine and Multi-line Machine. The company will also offer restaurant equipment such as Fresh Juice squeezer and Expresso Makers and Toasters. The company will target Branded Juice firms, Sandwich manufacturers and distributors and end users. â€Å"The mission of Express Vending LLC is to be the dominant company in both the vending machine and the restaurant equipment industries by providing easy access to a wide range of unique, high quality and innovative products at reasonable prices. We believe that we will be successful in meeting the needs of our customers by developing close contacts with them so that we have cordial relations with them. Express Vending LLC will earn adequate stream of profits from its operations so that stability can be sustained and even finance the future growth avenues. We will ensure that all our business operations will be conducted ethically and the value is added to our community by maintaining a familiar and friendly environment.† The business will use an advertising strategy that will segment, target and position in the market in order to market products effectively. Targeting will ensure that the right advertisement reaches

The Jubilee Debt Campaign Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Jubilee Debt Campaign - Essay Example This paper suggests that while reckless or self-interested lending by the rich world is indeed a factor, one significant aspect that must be neglected is the weakness of the developing countries with regard to its democratic institutions and regulatory mechanisms. In many, if not most, instances, it is the leaders of the developing countries themselves that subvert the development trajectory of the respective nations and compromise the well-being of their citizens. Domestic policy has played a big, if not key role, in the debt crisis of the third world. Leftwich suggests that official Western aid policy and development thinking is dominated by a new orthodoxy that good governance and democracy is not only desirable but also necessary. In many aid and loan agreements, however, precisely what is being taken advantage of is the dismal lack of democratic structures and glaring issues of governance. The point is that it is impossible to work out an economic recovery program while followin g the debt-repayment schedule of the creditors. Despite two decades of death relief efforts, the problem still remains. Hardships are evident, and many mass protests have taken place as a result of these hardships. A very good example of this is when precious government resources are channeled to debt restructuring instead of capital expenditures. The researcher takes a look at the example of Asian countries during the period of 1985 to 1995. Contrary to doctrinaire free-market economics, institutional economists argue that government financial resources devoted to building physical or social infrastructure or shoring up domestic demand â€Å"crowd in† rather than â€Å"crowd out† private investment, including foreign investment. For instance, one key study of a panel of developing economies from1980 to 1997 found that public investment, complemented private investment, and that, on average, a 10-percent increase in public investment was associated with a 2-percent inc rease in private investment.

The True Face of Jordan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The True Face of Jordan - Essay Example When these factions have become dissatisfied with their economic situation, their expanded access to political participation has been designed to steer them away from a demand for regime change. Further complicating the regime's balancing act has been Jordan's relationship with the U.S., which has benefited the country from a global economic standpoint but has been domestically swept under the proverbial rug. The potential for close cooperation with the U.S. such as in the areas of trade and military cooperation to upset the populace within Jordan and cause political upheaval is substantial. Ultimately, the true face of Jordan has been that of a politically precarious regime that has been teetering on the brink of popular unrest due to economic and political policies of the government that have been necessary to ensure its survival. Jordan's emergence onto the ... The process, known as "managed liberalization," was geared toward creating "an environment amenable to economic reform" (Cunningham, para 21). These steps included a revival of Parliament and restoration of national elections. "Jordan's political liberalization process has included a variety of elements including: the holding of regular and generally free parliamentary elections in 1989, 1993, and 1997; the institutionalization of the National Charter in 1991 which was authored by a broad-based coalition of societal and official actors; and the elimination of martial law by the early 1990s and the legalization of political parties" (par. 22). Other measures included more freedom of the press, increased freedom of expression, and greater freedom for Jordanians to engage in political activities" (Greenwood, par. 21). The tumultuous atmosphere of popular dissent in the country, brought on by the poor economy and the end of government subsidies on certain staples such as bread and fuel, required the government to ease the unrest by making such a serious attempt at political reform (Brand 5). Thus, the decision to pursue a more liberal system in Jordan was driven by a shrewd political calculation that popular discontent with the state of affairs in the country would be channeled away from the regime by taking such steps. The evolution of this liberalization process, marked by periodic tightening and loosening of the monarchy's grip, would continue to be governed more by these calculations focused on how best to preserve the king's hold on power rather than on any real dedication to the merits of political reform and democracy. "The Jordanian government's

Natural Selection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Natural Selection - Essay Example that when a certain species is bred with another one from different part of the world, it leads to creation of new patterns of species that are well adapted to the environment. It is a dangerous idea since it bases its argument on the ground that species once developed or created can never transform which is not correct. For instance, gene duplication is able to form different species resulting from the same parental organism mainly because of polyploidization. Human activity such as mining and construction dismantle animal homes thus rendering them homeless and at the same leaving them vulnerable to preditators and extreme climates that make their survival hard. Global climate change and environmental pollution leads to production of poisonous gases such as carbon dioxide that endanger some species such as marine life. This is because they consume poisonous chemicals that either kill them or alter their reproductive system. On the same front, change in temperatures and climate conditions leads to prolonged dry spells which wipes away animal homes thus hindering evolution of new

Stages of writing development Personal Statement

Stages of writing development - Personal Statement Example I developed my ideas in informal writing and class discussion and then through writing interpretive essays.These activities, I believe help to aim to develop the writing skills needed for success in college and in the world after college. The course also represented an introduction to the study of literature and through it, I believe that my writing has become more tailored. This class taught me to go beyond the simple formula of the five-paragraph essay. Building on familiar principles (regarding thesis statements and topic sentences, for example), I was given opportunities to compose longer essays using a variety of organizational methods. As a result, I will not be intimidated by the longer assignments and I will employ all that I already know about composing essays for my writing in other subject areas. My papers in my other classes will be built on my experience in this one. For four years, I will be asked to read, do research, gather data, analyze it, think about it, and then communicate it to others in a form in which enables them to asses it and use it.

Performance Appraisal and Its Negative Feedback Essay Example for Free

Performance Appraisal and Its Negative Feedback Essay A performance appraisal system had been established in that firm several years ago. The management with the help of consultants, conducted several innovative experiments and introduced many improvements in their existing system. The company believes that the system of performance appraisal is a strong tool and if it is wrongly rated, the results may mar . It printed on the format , a flowchart with full details mentioning dates and months for execution. At first ,it would go to the appraisee who would write down, if any, all his non-routine and excellent achievements in the self-appraisal column. Then the rather, his immediate boss ,would put his remarks on this and would rate the appraise by ticking ‘outstanding, good,fair and unsatisfactory’ on the columns of quality of output, job knowledge, decision-making, communication skills, human relations, planning and organizing, creativity and initiative, leadership, time management etc. The reviewer would thoroughly review column by column and would give his opinion. Before it was sent to the top management for better transparency, the signature of the appraisee was obtained. This system was in vogue and the management took pride in this modified system, which resulted in retention of employees. The blank form was given to SD Misra ,Manager (HR),a very sincere and a highly dedicated employee, who had achieved ‘outstanding’ rank for the last six years, for writing in the self-appraisal column. He did certain critical jobs during the year and wrote three. One, the industry suffered a scarcity of water during summer, which affected their industrial canteen also. Misra who was in-charge of the canteen, went to the small dam from where they receive water. He found the pipeline supplying water to the industry’s main pump during night time everyday. One night, he went along with his assistant and observed to his surprise that the employee of the dam has closed the valve of their pipeline and had opened another valve for supply of water to another company. They caught that person and stopped this malpractise and continued to visit that place during nights for more than a week. The problem of scarcity of water was solved with this initiative. Two, there was an accident just outside the factory’s gate where one of the employees was killed by a speeding lorry. It was about 2:15 p. m. when Misra received this sad news. He rushed to the spot and identified the employee. The doctor of their first-aid was brought who declared the employee dead. He took the responsibility of breaking this news to his family staying at a village at a distance of 12 kms. He met the police, who had already reached the accident spot, and ccompletely involved himself in the whole job of police formalities, post-mortem of the body. Due to some politician’s interference, the family members refused to accept the body till the management promised a job for one of the family members of the deceased. Misra made successful negotiations with the family, which gave up its agitation and accepted the body for the cremation. He received two appreciation letters from MD for these two successful achievements. Three, once Misra arranged a meeting for finalizing a three-day in-house training programme at one of their group companies,73 kms away. He was to go three along with his three colleagues. The driver was told to make jeep ready. Next morning, there were to start by 7 a. m. and all four were present. The driver phoned saying that his daughter was sick and he could not come to duty. Misra was firm in his resolve that â€Å"Our programme goes on as usual and there shall be no postponement. Misra said that he is going to drive the jeep and said †One employee cannot disturb any of our scheduled programmes†. He drove the jeep to and fro and finished the job successfully. Having written these three achievements in the self appraisal column,he handed them over to his immediate boss, KM Singh, Sr. Manager(HR),in a confidential envelope. KM Singh, who is known to be a procrastinator and lethargic, kept pending all appraisal forms till last day. Further, he had three enquiry reports for study and comments. Out of these, one was a case of suspension pending enquiry. He had kept pending all these reports and appraisals, which had now become urgent. His boss was pressurizing him to complete this jobs immediately. KM Singh took up the suspending pending enquiry case first . It took more than a day. He then began rating nine appraisals and completed the job without any concern for the consequences. The form, with comments of the rater and the reviewer, came back to Misra for his signature. He was shocked and reacted very sharply. It was an ‘unsatisfactory’ appraisal which he had seen for the first time. The cool and gentle Misra lost all his patience. He now began thinking. KM Singh wanted to promote his junior, Srivastav, and had deliberately spoiled his appraisal.

Requirements for Research Essay Example for Free

Requirements for Research Essay Abstract This study entitled â€Å"Orange (Citrus Sinensis) Peelings Extract as an Alternative shoe Polish† aims to aims to determine if orange peeling oil extract be a good alternative for shoe polish specifically to answer the following questions (1) What specific properties of the shoe polish produced are present/ identified? (2) What are the physical properties of the orange peeling extract shoe polish as to texture, color, and odor? (3) Is there significant difference/s between the orange peeling extract and coconut oil shoe polish with that of the other commercially sold shoe polish in terms of: polish-ness, odor, and texture? The researcher then conducted a series of experiments to test the project. These processes are the extraction of oil from the orange peelings that would be then mixed with the coconut oil produced (cooked) from the coconut plant and the testing and comparing of the alternative shoe polish made with that of the commercially sold shoe polish. The test was conducted with the use of leather shoes as the test object. The results showed that the alternative shoe polish produced has almost the same qualities as to that of the commercially sold shoe polish in terms of its physical properties. The produced shoe polish made the shoes shine a little bit and produced a nice odor considering the natural scent of the orange oil which is added to the mixture. The researcher recommends  trying testing different ratios of each and seeing in what trial it produced the best shoe polish. Further reading about the project is also recommended to widen the scope of study and to produce an alternative shoe polish that would be of help in aiming for the alternative shoe polish with the nearest qualities with that of commercial shoe polish. Acknowledgement The researcher wish to extend her sincerest appreciation to the following people who helped make this research. They are the ones who helped and supported me in performing this research. First to our Project Adviser and Research Teacher, Ma’am Juliet Ilustre-Herreria for continuously guiding and helping me throughout the making of my investigatory project; asked some tricky questions and suggested some opinions that eventually helped a lot in making the project. Next, to my cousin, Sherwin Keith Saringan for helping me choose what project to make and giving some information that could be of great help. To my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Balcorta for me giving support and supplying the materials that would be needed for this project to be completed. To my classmates and friends for giving encouragement whenever I lose hope and most of all to the Lord, up above, for answering my prayers and continuously guiding me in doing this research. Without these people around me, my investigatory project entitled, Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peeling Extract as an Alternative Shoe Polish, won’t be finished.

Concept Analysis Pain In The Oncology Patient Nursing Essay

Concept Analysis Pain In The Oncology Patient Nursing Essay Are you having any pain. These are most likely the first words from a registered nurse to an oncology patient. Pain is a concept that creates many challenges for medical professionals. In a review of patients with cancer, pain was reported in 33% of patients after treatment to cure cancer, 59% of patients given anti-cancer treatment with the aim of either curative or palliative treatment, 64% of patients having advanced, metastatic or terminal cancer and 53% of patients with all stages of the disease (Chapman, 2012a). Pain management is a common reason an oncology patient is admitted as an inpatient to a hospital. Nurses are at the forefront of assessing and managing pain to achieve adequate therapy. However, in order to reach this outcome, nurses need to understand the types and causes of pain, assessment tools, non-pharmacological treatment and action of pain medications (Casey, 2011). Nursing staff and other medical professionals need to act as patient advocates when dealing with pain so that symptoms can be managed. Nevertheless, within the healthcare system, the prevalence of pain is increasing and pain is a complex issue that is not always well understood or managed by healthcare professionals and patients (Shaw, 2006). Issues with Pain Nurses are constantly faced with managing pain and need to develop skills to identify when pain is not adequately controlled in order to make recommendations to alleviate a patients pain. Unfortunately, there are many times when both nurses and physicians are not well educated in pain management and are not successful in decreasing an individuals pain level. Regardless of the variety of treatment options, cancer pain is not always effectively managed due to several barriers that include poor assessment, insufficient knowledge about pain and treatment and specific concerns about dependence, tolerance, addiction and drug-related side effects (Chapman, 2012b). In addition, many medical professionals hold inappropriate beliefs and attitudes toward pain management, which can affect providing pain relief for patients (Naylor, 2003). Some practitioners are fearful of prescribing or administering pain medications at a high level that might be required due to a patients tolerance. This create s many challenges in providing adequate pain control for patients that are able to verbalize their pain, as well as those patients who are not able to verbally express their pain levels. Significance in Nursing Pain is a significant concept in oncology nursing. Physicians and nurses working with this population need to be experts in pain management. It is critical for medical professionals to understand the different types of pain that oncology patients can experience. There are several pain management treatments available and not every medication will work effectively for a patient. It is important for nurses to recognize differences so that patients can be effectively managed. When pain is not adequately controlled, patients can become withdrawn and unable to focus on important aspects of their quality of life including activities of daily living and sexual and social relationships (Chapman, 2012a). In addition, mood, sleep patterns, cognition and existential beliefs can be affected (Chapman, 2012a). There are several types of pain that an oncology patient can experience. The most common types of pain are chronic pain, acute pain and breakthrough pain. Chronic pain is a constant pain. Acute pain can last anywhere from a few days to a few months and typically resolves when the underlying condition is treated (Chapman, 2012). Breakthrough pain happens briefly with moderate-to-severe flare-ups that occur even when a patient is taking long acting pain medication to address their chronic pain (Kedziera, 1998). Understanding these types of pain is pivotal to determine medications to be prescribed and implement non-pharmacological therapies. When medical staff understands the causes and types of cancer pain, they can individualize pain management strategies in order to improve the quality of patient care as well as provide sufficient pain relief (Chapman, 2012a). Oncology patients pain can be caused by several factors. Pain can be caused by tumors, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation which can affect different parts of the human body (Chapman, 2012a). When staff is knowledgeable about disease processes and treatments, medical professionals can prescribe medications to address specific pain. Nurses must assess an individuals pain management regimen at home so that dosing can be adjusted when admitted to the hospital. Nurses must be diligent in comparing prescribed medications to home medications. There have been instances when physicians will fail to order a long acting pain medication that a patient might take at home that can result in inadequate relief. Pain Assessment Assessing an individuals pain is a key component in achieving pain management. Nurses need to evaluate a patents pain when considering pain therapy and the nurse needs to focus on the following factors: (1) consistency in pain control, (2) taking action in response to an individuals pain assessment, (3) maximize effectiveness of medications while reducing side effects and (4) avoid gaps in pain control (Casey, 2011). Physicians do not spend as much face-time with patients as nurses, therefore, nurses have the responsibility to understand a patients pain and verbalize to the physician to achieve adequate pain control. An accurate and detailed assessment can provide guidance in creating an individualized treatment plan (Naylor, 2003). Each persons pain is going to be different and it is important to utilize assessment tools to implement the most effective pain management plan. When determining ways to manage pain based on the assessment, nurses need to not only focus on the physical as pects but also include pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments to reach optimal comfort (Naylor, 2003). Education and training on different types of pain assessment tools and scales that are utilized in practice is essential to effectively manage pain levels of each patient. Without the ability to adequately assess a patients pain, there will be profound negative effects on comfort levels and the ability to meet health goals. Nurses have a pivotal role in addressing pain in oncology patients. It is essential for nurses to realize that managing pain goes beyond administering medication and that utilizing a holistic nursing care approach can allow a nurse to better understand a patients individual pain. Pain responses can be affected by psychological, social and cultural influences, such as anxiety, anger and fear that may enhance an individuals perception of pain (Naylor, 2003). In addition, cultural beliefs, upbringing and social situations may be the reason for certain expressions of pain (Naylor, 2003). Nurses need to be vigilant in recognizing factors that affect a patients pain and the meaning that an individual attaches to pain (Chapman, 2012a). A nurses role goes beyond completing tasks on a checklist but having the ability to connect with their patients to identify root causes of pain. It has been found that in order to reach a goal of effective symptom management, the multidisciplinary team must c reate a positive therapeutic relationship with the patient (Chapman, 2012a). Many times a patient is looking for the opportunity to express themselves and nurses have the ability to provide an environment that allows patients to open-up and verbalize their feelings. Changes to Nursing Practice The concept analysis has brought heightened awareness to the idea of pain. When assessing pain, there are many factors to be considered as addressed in the concept analysis. The analysis opened a door to look beyond what medical practitioners physically assess but also the importance of listening and understand the patient. The nurse must reflect on experiences he/she has with patients to improve their ability to effectively manage pain. Nurses need to realize that in order to implement appropriate nursing activities to meet a patients pain needs requires an ongoing learning process to truly understand the concept of pain (Cheng, 2003). Nurses have the ability to manage pain by getting to know their patients to be able to implement change. Nurses need to work on their listening skills so that patients feel that they can openly express their feeling and concerns. This allows the nurse to help guide the patient to becoming involved in his/her care. It is clear that when pain is not ade quately controlled it can have negative consequences on not only the patient but the entire family unit. Anticipated Outcomes Through the use of reflecting, provides the opportunity to anticipate outcomes and create successes in managing pain. One tool to achieve effective pain management and evaluate strategies is by conducting pain assessments (Naylor, 2003). Through these assessments, a nurse can identify physical effects of pain and understand both location and intensity. To know if a nurse is successful, the nurse will see a change in level of reported pain or physical attributes that a patient might exhibit. By changing current practice methods, nurses will be able to create an environment where patients will verbally express feelings which will be a sign of progress in better meeting patient needs. In addition, through these encounters nurses will be able to identify their patients use of coping mechanisms to address pain. Nurses can also see success when utilizing a holistic nursing approach by looking beyond everyday tasks and viewing the patient as a human being. As nurses identify factors that af fect pain management, they will be able to better meet patient needs. Nurses will have the education and skills to recognize and alleviate pain before it occurs by utilizing pain management interventions, methods and medications. Concept Analysis The analysis has relevance to understanding the concept of pain, while also isolating it from other concepts. The concept analysis regarding pain was intended to increase awareness and understanding pain by clarifying the defining attributes of pain, identifying antecedents that affect the perception of pain and the possible consequences of pain (Cheng, 2003). It is clear that pain is a concept that is not always well understood and requires analysis that others can become more conscious and responsive to addressing patients pain needs. The model case discussed pain using a scenario regarding an oncology patient. The model case included all the defining attributes: (a) unpleasant and distressful experiences originating from physical sensation and having both positive and negative meanings for an individual; (b) an individual human experience; (c) a state of feeling in both sensation and emotion (verbal), and behavioral components; (d) physical and psychological responses to the stimulus; (e) function of pain, including protective and warning signs; (f) pain responses and learned and influenced by personality, environment, emotions, social and cultural (Cheng, 2003). This example supported the concept of pain and clearly stated the characteristics of the case to addressing all the points regarding the concept of pain. Due to each patients individuality, personal experiences and views, there are several types of scenarios that could have been utilized as a model case. The model case creates awareness for nurses of all the factors to consider when understanding a patients pain. Nurses have to be able to use the skills to visually assess and listen to patients while understanding a patients history and the events that have taken place to bring the patient to the point of the pain that they are reporting. Understanding a patients culture and individual beliefs can provide insight regarding a patients response and expression of pain. Nurses need to be aware of potential patterns in certain cultural groups, however, nurses should not over generalize or stereotype that everyone within a culture will behave in the same manner (Davidhizar, 1997). This emphasizes the complexities when assessing and understanding a patients pain, and nurses need to go beyond the basic assessment tools and understand the individual to achieve effective pain control. The use of a borderline case and contrary case were used to distinguish the concept of pain from the model case (Cheng, 2003). The cases are important in differentiating the concept of pain from other closely related concepts, as seen in the additional cases. The borderline case did not meet all the elements of the model case and the contrary case addressed the concept of fear related to pain (Cheng, 2003). These cases enhance the model case and allow the reader to see alternate examples of situations that may arise in a clinical setting. Conclusion Pain is a universal part of the human experience and will continue to be an integral part of providing nursing care (Shaw, 2006). Pain is a complex concept that does not have one specific answer to meet all patient needs. Pain management requires assessment skills, knowledge and a holistic approach to nursing care to be successful at eliminating or effectively controlling pain in oncology patients. Nurses have both technical and moral tasks in the management of pain because they are the ones conducting assessments, administering pain medications and evaluating effectiveness, as well as, determining which pain relief measures and interventions are provided to patients (Shaw, 2006). Nurses need to continue to expand their knowledge base and be aware of their own values and beliefs in order to be successful in managing the dynamics and complexities of pain.

The Bush Administrations Relation With Iraq Prior to Iraqs Invasion o

The Bush Administration's Relation With Iraq Prior to Iraq's Invasion of Kuwait Prior to the August 2, 1990 invasion of Kuwait on the part of Iraq, the United States had questionable relations with Iraq dictator, Saddam Hussein, to say the least. In retrospect, which is inherently advantageous as a 20/20 perspective, questions remain unanswered as to whether or not the United States was too appeasing to Saddam Hussein in the years, months, and days leading up to that early August morning. There remains to this day lingering questions as to the role that the US Ambassador to Iraq, April Glaspie, played in conveying the Administration's message to the Iraqi leader. In addition, questions surrounding the Administrators official policy, the calculations (or miscalculations) on the part of the State Department and other agencies within the US government, the Administrations covert plan to aid an Italian bank in illegal loans to benefit Saddam's military and the advice that the US received from other Arab nations with respect to what US relations should be with Iraq in terms of any impending border dispute, constitute a limited context of the issues that faced the Administration as it tried to deal with the leader of the largest economy of the Persian Gulf region. The Bush Administration's relations with Iraq prior to its invasion of Kuwait were clouded in a context of misperception by both states and further complicated by a lack of credibility on the part of key actors of both sides as well. This tragic sequence of events that led to the invasion of Kuwait cannot solely be attributed to personality traits or even actions by key individuals within the Administration. In retrospect, it is much more complex than that. However, the actions and public and private statements on the part of key personnel on both sides most likely contributed to the eventual invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990. Since, a brief, yet modest account of the history of the events leading up to the invasion and the invasion in itself along with the regional and global actors has been offered in section A, section B will be an analysis of the role of misperception and questions of credibility with respect to key actors on both sides of the issue, from State Department officials to Saddam Hussein himself. While touching on the importance and significance of o... ..., 3/20/91 6 Glaspie, April, Opening Remarks, Hearing by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, 3/20/91 7 Iraqi Government, Excerpts from Iraqi Document on Meeting with US Envoy, "The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.19 8 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 9 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 10 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 11 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A18 12 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A18 14 Friedman, Thomas, "US Explains View of Envoy to Iraq," The New York Times, 3/22/31, p.A9, col. 1 15 Sciolino, Elaine, "Envoy's Testimony on Iraq is Assailed," The New York Times, 7/13/91, p.A1, col.1 16 Sciolino, Elaine, "Envoy's Testimony on Iraq is Assailed," The New York Times, 7/13/91, p.A4, col.1 17 McAllister, J.F.O., "The Lessons of Iraq," Time, 11/2/92, pp.57-59 The Bush Administration's Relation With Iraq Prior to Iraq's Invasion o The Bush Administration's Relation With Iraq Prior to Iraq's Invasion of Kuwait Prior to the August 2, 1990 invasion of Kuwait on the part of Iraq, the United States had questionable relations with Iraq dictator, Saddam Hussein, to say the least. In retrospect, which is inherently advantageous as a 20/20 perspective, questions remain unanswered as to whether or not the United States was too appeasing to Saddam Hussein in the years, months, and days leading up to that early August morning. There remains to this day lingering questions as to the role that the US Ambassador to Iraq, April Glaspie, played in conveying the Administration's message to the Iraqi leader. In addition, questions surrounding the Administrators official policy, the calculations (or miscalculations) on the part of the State Department and other agencies within the US government, the Administrations covert plan to aid an Italian bank in illegal loans to benefit Saddam's military and the advice that the US received from other Arab nations with respect to what US relations should be with Iraq in terms of any impending border dispute, constitute a limited context of the issues that faced the Administration as it tried to deal with the leader of the largest economy of the Persian Gulf region. The Bush Administration's relations with Iraq prior to its invasion of Kuwait were clouded in a context of misperception by both states and further complicated by a lack of credibility on the part of key actors of both sides as well. This tragic sequence of events that led to the invasion of Kuwait cannot solely be attributed to personality traits or even actions by key individuals within the Administration. In retrospect, it is much more complex than that. However, the actions and public and private statements on the part of key personnel on both sides most likely contributed to the eventual invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990. Since, a brief, yet modest account of the history of the events leading up to the invasion and the invasion in itself along with the regional and global actors has been offered in section A, section B will be an analysis of the role of misperception and questions of credibility with respect to key actors on both sides of the issue, from State Department officials to Saddam Hussein himself. While touching on the importance and significance of o... ..., 3/20/91 6 Glaspie, April, Opening Remarks, Hearing by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, 3/20/91 7 Iraqi Government, Excerpts from Iraqi Document on Meeting with US Envoy, "The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.19 8 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 9 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 10 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A1 11 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A18 12 Sciolino, Elaine, "US Gave Iraq Little Reason Not to Mount Kuwait Assault," The New York Times, 9/23/90, p.A18 14 Friedman, Thomas, "US Explains View of Envoy to Iraq," The New York Times, 3/22/31, p.A9, col. 1 15 Sciolino, Elaine, "Envoy's Testimony on Iraq is Assailed," The New York Times, 7/13/91, p.A1, col.1 16 Sciolino, Elaine, "Envoy's Testimony on Iraq is Assailed," The New York Times, 7/13/91, p.A4, col.1 17 McAllister, J.F.O., "The Lessons of Iraq," Time, 11/2/92, pp.57-59

Comparing Two Magazines Essay -- Compare and Contrast

Comparing Two Magazines For my compare and contrast essay, I have decided to compare two magazines in the financial and business world of entrepreneurs. The name of the first magazine is † Small business opportunities† and the second magazine is â€Å"Entrepreneurs – Be your own boss† The theme of the first magazine is to highlight, how and what type of businesses to start and make money without putting in much of the hard work. The very first page of the magazine shows an absolute image of the man and women dressed up with lots of money and a road of success. The magazine rapidity claims† Sure ways to make money†. It seems like editor is personally involved in guaranteeing the success of the business with highlighting text displaying â€Å"Make $40 Million with eco-friendly herbs and sprouts† or â€Å"Make 15 million in the first year with Dollar Varity stores† As I am turning and reading pages more and more, I realize that this magazine is not meant to show issues, techniques, pros and cons of starting up a business but it is more like infomercials showing the top returns one can reap from his investments. The magazine forces me to realize that I am missing a essential experience in my life by not starting up the business. The magazine displays beautiful color and picture schemes. The magazine also highlights few of the success stories of the entrepreneurs. Overall this magazine makes business as a seamless transition of normal day today activity to a profit generating machine, ...

wake up (argument ) :: essays research papers

Wake-up   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I grew up on the corner of Ocean Ave. and Dorchester Ave., where all the older kids sat by the stoop that provide a gust of breeze during the summer. As the little ones on the block cool off form the open fire hydrant. Brooklyn, New York, Flatbush to be specific is the topic of the composition. Flatbush is a place where people pray to God so long that they soon become an Atheist. It’s a place where you can be with your friend one day and tomorrow he is dead. And the A-Team comes by, excuse me the cops, we call them that because they come out of vans and begin shooting with no regard. They may seem odd to many, but to me this is a typical and natural condition.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Death is so normal, young men think about writing wills at eight-teen. In my apartment building, I walk through broken glass in the hallway and bloodstained floors. When I come from the corner store neighbors, look at every bag you bring through your doors. Once I come through my door I lock the top lock, my mother would love have cuffed me to the radiator so I wouldn’t go out. Just imagine and try to envision these sentences as the depict various scenarios that go on as you read this essay. These events probably won’t make it to your evening news, but stories as such affect people in a lesser or same magnitude that the victims of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and crashed airplane accidents.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  So it’s most likely my responsibility and duty to inform the less-informed about the tragedies that occur on a everyday cycle. Tragedies that touches thousands but the media feels it really isn’t that important. Let me clarify that this doesn’t only go on Flatbush, Brooklyn, N.Y., rather this goes on practically everywhere in our great nation. From the hot and humid streets of Miami to the cold hostile settings in Chicago, the same cycles reenacts itself in different regions.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It’s not important to broadcast every single â€Å"bad† occurrence, but it is imperative to realize such events are going on and not just be blind about it. If a tall and towering tree falls down and no one is there, does the tree make a loud and terrible noise.

Design and Technology Essay

ChairJames Lillis fashion designer of Black Milk online shop â€Å"A lot of people want to know how Black Milk came to be. Well, it’s a long story, full of twists and turns, action and adventures. There are even a few scary bits. But seeing as you asked†¦ why don’t you pull up a metaphoric chair around my metaphoric fire and I’ll tell you the story of Black Milk†¦ â€Å" When James was young, there was a time that he was broke, and everyone around him seemed to have a great job that they enjoyed, â€Å"I was broke, bored and rather cold. At that point most people would have got a job and a beanie, but not I†. He woke up one morning with a desire to make himself a shirt, he went out and bought a second hand sewing machine, and with only $6 left in his wallet, he bought the cheapest nylon lining that he could find. He still does not know why he had such random impulse but he is very glad he did, â€Å"It was these fateful decisions that lead me down the path to Black Milk†. Nylon lining is one of the least attractive fabrics in the market; he had to make a fitted shirt with no one to teach him how to sew this complicated fabric. â€Å"It was tragic. The stitching was wrong, the pieces were cut weird, and the neck was a nothing more than a hole. And I loved it† From that moment, things changed. He began doing odd jobs, but â€Å"at the back of my mind I was plotting and planning. If I got ten bucks it wasn’t just ten bucks †¦ it was half a meter of printed fabric. Three dollars was a new packet of needles. A hundred bucks meant I could get my machine fixed. † With all his enthusiasm he worked in trial and error testing different ways of sewing bits and pieces of fabric. â€Å"You will immediately notice: 1. Both legs are too short 2. The pattern on the right leg is upside down (Hey, I’m a slow starter, alright?! ) However, despite this every girl who tried them on wanted to buy them. Which was super encouraging for me. So I kept going. † After one week of teaching himself how to sew with a half working machine, he went into a dance shop and bought some shiny sparkly fabric. â€Å"The shop was full of mothers, grandmothers, and me. They looked at me like I was from another planet†. He bought a tribal African print because he had seen on the shops that these prints were in fashion, he thought about the fabric and felt an intuition that it would look best on legs. He started working immediately, drew up a  pattern, cut it out and made a pair of leggings in an impressive time for a starter. He wanted to try the leggings on a model and talked to his friend who had a friend who agreed to be a model for James to see if they fit. She put them on, and they didn’t. So he cut them again, and sewed them again several times. And they still didn’t fit. â€Å"I must have recut t hose things ten times†. And finally, they fit. It was at that point that something remarkable and completely unexpected happened, this changed everything. She asked if she could buy them. She took out her wallet, gave him some money and walked off with James leggings. â€Å"I couldn’t stop smiling for the rest of the day. † It was at that point that James felt that it was not impossible. â€Å"I knew that if there was one girl prepared to buy one pair of my leggings, there were (probably) a hundred girls out there who would do the same†. He felt even more confident and he worked even harder to start his own little business â€Å"I threw myself into it with a passion. I would spend 5-6 hours a day on the sewing machine trying to figure out how to sew properly. I even attended sewing lessons at the local sewing shop (yes, I stuck out like a sore thumb). It was pretty tough in those early days. On more than one occasion I came close to throwing everything in the bin. † The next in the list was getting out and selling his designs, so he went door to door, trying to get shops to sell a few of his pieces. And after several painful no’s, one place finally agreed to display a few of James clothes in a corner of their shop. Unfortunately, a week later and they gave him every single piece back. But he was very determined and bought markets to sell his clothes in the Saturday markets. Since 5:30am every single Saturday, James stood around under the sun all day, selling his creations. He was considerably unpopular at the markets, but hundreds of girls all around the world were very interested when they found his clothes through blogging, that soon became much more famous than the tent and so James decided fatefully to make Black Milk exclusively into an online fashion label. â€Å"I talked to a few people in the industry who told me I was making a big mistake and that I would go broke within the month. I was told that online selling was only for companies with ‘real’ shops. But ‘real’ shops weren’t interested in my clothes, so I went online. As it turns out, it was a very good idea. :)† Within 3 years Black Milk have gained over 15000 fan on Facebook been so huge that the team can’t keep up with the sales and a lot of â€Å"sharkies† (Black Milk fans) are getting disappointed on the low reach of the company. James is working as fast as he can with the team to improve his production. Black milk is selling products all around the world, but James himself blogged that the top countries currently buying black milk are â€Å"So what the heck†¦ maybe we’ll just go nuts and set up a studio in the US. You only live once. And of course, we will still have our Australian studios and they will keep expanding. 🙂 Of course, it goes without saying that our strict policy about not manufacturing in the third world is not going to change any time soon. In fact†¦ never. :)† â€Å"I don’t know what this hand signal means, but if it is something along the lines of â€Å"Guess what Black Milk did a deal with LucasArts and so the most awesome clothing ever created will be available Soon†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ then it is surprisingly accurate† James is very excited that the industry grows bigger every day and very fast. â€Å"Instead of me sewing away by myself at night, we have a fantastic team who pump out thousands of garments every month. Instead of trying to get our clothes into ‘real’ shops, we’re online and loving it. Instead of selling to a few girls at the markets, we now have a community of the most amazing girls you could hope for who are passionate about the brand. However, there are some things that haven’t changed. I still love making clothes. I still love hearing from girls who buy the clothes. I love seeing all the different ways girls style their Black Milk pieces, and I love working with all the Black Milk team. Game Boy Print Swimsuit This swimsuit was posted by a number of fashion blogs and websites even before it was released, Black Milk ran out of stock in less than 2 days. Surprisingly a lot of males bought this piece to give it as a present. Spartan leggings Lindsay Lohan wearing Spartan Leggings from Black Milk’s liquid collection. The Muscle leggings â€Å"This is an idea that we have been thinking about for a while. A few people encouraged me to do it but I never quite got around to it. Then I got a spare afternoon one day and decided to have a good go at making it work. It worked†¦. perhaps a little too well! Definitely our most ‘meaty’ design.. † Posted in over 30 blog entries and internet articles, these leggings have been very controversial, both males and females from many countries have been purchasing them, in the other side, the comments from sharkies and teens on social networks show either that they absolutely love them or would not wear them at all. Composition: Polyester/Spandex Oscar Tusquets Blanca: architect, painter and designer Born in Barcelona-Spain in 1941. Studied at the School Llotja of Barcelona and the ETSAB. In 1964 he founded the PER Studio with Lluis Clotet, in which worked regularly until 1984. In 1987 Blanca associated with the architect John Smith and carried out projects in countries like Japan and Germany. In 1980 participated in the enlargement of the Barcelona School of Medicine and two years later in the remodelling of the â€Å"Palau de le Musica catalana† in Barcelona (which will be explained latter on). He also participated in various urban projects such as remodelling of the Convent dels Angels area or the construction of the Olympic Village, two projects in the Catalan capital. He has been awarded several times with the gold prize FAD Delta and in 1987 received the Creu de Sant Jordi. His Italian tradition merely lies in his close cooperation with the manufacturers of products and with his close rtelationship with the technicians. At this time it was very rare for a Spanish or Italian designer to produce working drawings from their designs. Concept sketches serve only to convince the designer himself and his assistants within the studio that a design proposal is possible and to develop the main idea; but Blanca prefers to strike up face to face discussions with those responsible for manufacture and designs may be modified many times before the shape and form of the product is finalized. Blanca believes that there are two types of technicians, â€Å"those who only see difficulties and the usually older craft-men who say ‘this may seem impossible but if I make it this way perharts it is possible’ if a designer does not propose silly things the technician will respect him, it is not possible to improvise design†. His success consists in insistent supervision, not only because he prefers to build a comfortable environment for everybody but because he believes that â€Å"if the design is a failure it is completely my fault†. He worked for several companies a lot of them owned by personal friends, he was highly attached to the technicians â€Å"they are clever and full of suggestions rather than coercive†. But he also had his up and downs, such as the disagreement with the furniture manufacturer â€Å"knoll international† which Blanca believed was overdoing the suggestion that he submit three separate design solutions for a chair. Blanca found the task â€Å"impossible to come up with† because he was a strongly innovative man and in Spain at the time, the market was cost effective and manufacturers believed cheaper to copy Italian and Swedish designs, finding a cheaper solution than that, required a bit more than cleverness including the fact that the manufacturing had to be as cheap as possible and he found the deal with the rest of the workers very hard to accept because it went against his principles. Finding one solution only was hard enough. However soon enough, Spain entered the European Community and the industry around Barcelona and Valencia begun to change as imports tariffs had dropped. It was no longer cost effective, the Italian and Swedish designs were put aside because Spanish consumers could now afford the products of competitive wares which started looking for designers. Blanca had a lot of enthusiasm in trying new inventions which he would not have had the courage to try with Italian producers. The range begun in 1984 and comprises seven different chairs. The lattest was designed for the refurbishment of Domenech I Montaners 1903 previously mentioned â€Å"Palau de le Musica Catalana† in Barcelona. It is described as an auditorium chair and much study has been applied to the acoustical problems â€Å"a good chair for a cinema is a bad chair for a conference hall† This was the final solution, designed for auditoriums. It was first used when renovating the Palau de la Musica Catalana, in Barcelona. However this design was so successful, that if a designer saw it, would think it had been evolving and being perfectioned for years rather than the truth, a lucky clever design. Underneath each seat users find a Helmholtz resonator, which, absorbs the same amount of sound as a human body when the seat is upright. The result is little difference of reverberation no matter how many people were in the hall. This design is said to be successful because is now being used in more than 50 public halls in Spain, including the Senate. This chair was only one of the innovative solutions that Blanca introduced to the â€Å"Palau de le Musica Catalana† that he spent six years enlarging, restoring and air conditioning. The In the first phase, which took several years to achieve, Blanca among with his co-workers, repaired the very damaged parts of the old building and equipped it with sanitary facilities, accessibility, safety and comfort features. These were of course unimaginable a hundred years earlier, but his team made it possible. Palau de le Musica Catalana. Sketches in the process of refurbishment of Domenech I Montaners â€Å"Palau de le Musica Catalana† However the most noteworthy part of the project was to take advantage of the adjacent unfinished church part of the site, to open up the central hidden area properly and more efficiently, even though, remarkably, Domenech had bestowed on it a richness of treatment to be compared with that of the facades, thus opening up a new entrance to the Palau. In the extension adjacent to the stage, Blanca provided services for the performers: rehearsal room, dressing rooms, library, etc In 1979, Alessandro Mendini invited eleven architects from all over the world to design a tea and coffee set: Michael Graves, Hans Hollein, Charles Jencks, Richard Meier, Paolo Portoghesi, Aldo Rossi, Stanley Tigerman, Oscar Tusquets, Robert Venturi, Kazumasa Yamashita and Mendini himself. The overall set is an exercise in micro-architecture, reflecting the various architectural styles of the day. The outcome was presented as Tea ; Coffee Piazza and 99 sets were made in silver, bearing the monogram of each designer. According to Alessandro Mendini in the â€Å"Domus† magazine, Blanca became well known because of the design of the tea set. This product is everything but aimed at all formalistic or decorative it is in fact a detailed study of the history of the teapot, how the applied arts combine with aerodynamics to manage to resolve the problem of containing and pouring hot liquid. He soon saw that the spout, which should emerge from the lower part of the pot – where the liquid is denser and less hot, had been gradually shortened and displaced towards the upper part of the vessel. This was because of the difficulty of making a separate piece and then soldering it to the base. As a result, many present-day teapots only have the slightest of notches in their upper rim for the liquid to be poured out through and this leads to problems with sloppy pouring and inevitable dripping. Another problem area is the handle, there being three traditional types: the top handle – Japanese, the lateral handle – which OTB preferred for its balance and accuracy, and, the least common – the outjutting horizontal handle. OTB discovered that the handle had also been subjected to a gradual process of simplification, leading to unacceptable levels of discomfort: overheating, imbalance, insufficient surface grip area, and so on. Models of the teapot, His studio used balsa and papier Mache for model making. For the Alessi tea set he had a wooden model made professionally because of his distance from Italy. This product is everything but aimed at all formalistic or decorative it is in fact a detailed study of the history of the teapot, how the applied arts combine with aerodynamics to manage to resolve the problem of containing and pouring hot liquid. He soon saw that the spout, which should emerge from the lower part of the pot – where the liquid is denser and less hot, had been gradually shortened and displaced towards the upper part of the vessel. This was because of the difficulty of making a separate piece and then soldering it to the base. As a result, many present-day teapots only have the slightest of notches in their upper rim for the liquid to be poured out through and this leads to problems with sloppy pouring and inevitable dripping. Another problem area is the handle, there being three traditional types: the top handle – Japanese, the lateral handle – which OTB preferred for its balance and accuracy, and, the least common – the outjutting horizontal handle.