Multinational Business in Japan and South East Asia Term Paper

Multinational Business in Japan and South East Asia - Term Paper Example Japanese economic growth following the American occupation wars remarkable for its magnitude, speed, and downright relentlessness. Between 1957 and 1984, Japan's gross national product increased from $3.08 billion to $1.261 billion, a 42-fold jump. Moreover, Japan's economy grew at an annual rate of 9 percent per year during the high-growth years of the 1960s. How was this economic miracle achieved? Japan has employed a version of "developmental capitalism" that allows for a much greater government role in promoting Japan's international competitiveness than is typical in Anglo-American liberal capitalism. Japanese business and government leaders started to develop and implement policies aimed at promoting national economic growth following the end of the U.S occupation of Japan in 1952. The government has positively influenced economic growth through wise macroeconomic policies. Business in Japan has maintained very close relations with the bureaucracy and politician.  Japan's gro ss national savings at its zenith reached nearly 40 percent in the post-war period. Between 1960 and 1980, the Japanese saved around 20 percent of their disposable personal income. The high level of savings of households provided banks and other financial institution with ample funds for heavy investment in the private sector. Japan has invested heavily in developing an effective education and training system. Companies are responsible for providing technical training to the persons they hire.  Japan's economic success can be explained by largely the Cold War and the relationship between the United States and Japan that it produced. The cold war rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union led the United States to shelter Japan from the vagaries of international politics, permitting the Japanese to focus their attention and resource on achieving economic growth. Advocates of "free rider" in which the U.S-Japan relationship has supported Japanese economic growth. The Unit ed States provided cheap technology transfer to Japan following World War II and promoted the Japanese economic build-up through its international trade policy. From an economic standpoint, the contrast between the 1990s and the cold war years can be seen by looking at Japan's real economic growth rate. In 1992, Japan's economy entered a period of stagnation with economic growth rates much below the previous average. In retrospect, it is clear that the Japanese economy became dominated by a financial bubble in the 1980s and early 1990s. In May 1989, the government tightened its monetary policies to suppress the rise in the value of assets such as land. By the end of 1990, the Tokyo stock market had fallen 38%, wiping out 300 trillion yen (the US $ 2.07 trillion) in value, and land prices dropped steeply from their speculative peak. This plunge into recession is known as the "bubble economy". The post-bubble recession continued through the second half of the 1990s.  

Self Against Fate Essay -- essays research papers

In the epic poem, Beowulf, we discover a new way of looking at life. The poem, which was written by an unknown author, depicts life as a journey that is set out for you by God, one that is unchangeable and indefinite. Beowulf as a character is a marvelous person, however, not even he with all his power and might can change his destiny. We as people today base our lives around the same thoughts and ideas. No one knows when our last day will be to step foot on earth. Every second of every minute could be our last. We are sent to Earth by God with a purpose, and only we as individuals can determine that purpose after we have truly, fully lived. In the epic poem, Beowulf, Beowulf himself acts as the epic hero in defeating all evil to uphold the glory and safety of his people as fate would allow him with each struggle. Throughout the play, we find Beowulf constantly having to defend himself in the fight not only against three horrid monsters, but the fight against fate. Beowulf starts out the poem as a young man, full of pride and honor. As he ages, his wisdom and capabilities excel while his final destiny draws nearer. The slaughter he takes not only brutalizes him physically, but takes a mental toll on his life in terms of time. â€Å"Physical and moral evil can be challenged and overcome, but the ultimate evil (perhaps at its extremity, age and death) cannot be avoided. Beowulf slays his antagonist and transcends his own death. By dying as he lived, he is a model for triumph in th...

Working as a Team

1. Introduction People form teams to accomplish a shard goal or task and have done so since the beginning of human history. For instance, cavemen building a fire together, students working on a group project, or basketball players playing on the same team, the need for teamwork is becoming greater. Parker (2011) suggests that teamwork is essential for business organizations to achieve success. Nowadays, working efficiently with others in a team is a key skill in order to survive in the competitive world of work.In any global business, certain skills and strategies are needed to incorporate into developing teams to maintain effective outcomes. The range of skills includes motivation, conflict management and team goals. This essay will examine the three mentioned aspects of teamwork that would prepare a person to work effectively in a team environment, supported by two real world examples for each aspect to show how individuals in organizations work successfully as active team players. 2. Body Firstly, motivation is an essential element in team-based workplaces.Workers are not mechanism, when they are asked to do the same tasks repeatedly, they will easily lose their interest or passion for their jobs. Consequently, a good way to keep team members’ passion is to motivate them. Motivation theory is one of the most vital theories in Human Resource Management. Armstrong (2001, p. 155) explains the motivation theory is applicable in organizations where they motivate their team members to utilize their skills and knowledge. This would aid at surpassing the organizations' goals and improve the capability to provide better for their teams.According to a research conducted by Macky and Johnson (2003, p. 82), the result shows that when teams are provided with a satisfactory workplace reflecting each personal necessity and requirement, instead of a higher wage or bonus, members are motivated to work harder and more efficiently. This indicates that using beneficial m otivators is becoming more important in nowadays business. In the operation of organizations, examples show motivation plays an important role in achieving success. Howard Schultz, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Google Inc. hich is based in California, considers that the success of the company is to put their employees as the first priority in its offices. According to the official website of Google (2011), the company offers a great range of benefits, including dining facilities, aerobics studios, laundry rooms, massage rooms, haircuts, car wash service and more. He firmly believes that â€Å"appreciation is the best motivation†, by providing a fun and inspiring workspace, team members are able to work in a positive atmosphere.This means team partners can motivate each other to satisfy their own needs, thus a greater opportunity to offer a higher level of performance (Google, 2011). Schultz is the CEO of Starbucks, an international coffeehouse chain based in Seattle, U SA, applies the same principle that employees matter just as much as products do. Michelli (2008) states that Starbucks provides a variety of welfare measures for the Starbucks teams, for instance, accommodation discounts, medical insurance, and vacations.This shows when the company satisfies team members’ needs, they are encouraged to work towards the same goal and strive for the best for the company. From these two examples, it is clear that therefore motivation can lead team members to provide higher quality of work and increase the profit of the company. Secondly, conflict management is a vital aspect in a high-performance team. Conflict is defined as â€Å"the perceived difference between two or more parties resulting in mutual opposition† (Bartol et al, 2008, p. 24). Conflicts are inevitable as different members in teams have different opinions and methods to show their variations (Engleberg, Wynn, 2006, p. 147). Some of the major causes of conflicts are arise fr om the oppose perspective of members’ desire, goals, values and beliefs (DeJanasz, Dowd, Schneifer, 2001, p. 243). Conflicts and arguments in teams can rise negative feelings among members such as ‘lost sight of team goal’, these feelings may lead to failure in achieving effective outcomes (Engleberg, Wynn, 2006, p. 48). Therefore, it is important for team members to recognize the effective strategies in dealing with conflicts in order to minimize fighting and hostility. With proper conflict management, workers are able to work productively as a team where differentiality are accepted (Boone, Kurtz, 2010, p. 2). This shows development of conflict management techniques is essential in contemporary business. In any team-based workplace, correct conflict management can enhance the success of organizations can achieve.The CEO of a Houston-based Birkman International Company, Richard Goldman introduced a policy where his team of employees need to attend compulsive com munication classes every week in attempt to reduce conflicts arise from misunderstanding when they communicate (Tallia et al, 2006). Goldman considers that overcoming communication barriers can provide outstanding insights with team members’ thoughts and act (Tallia et al, 2006). This suggests that team members are allowed to work more practically together when conflicts are handled and solved with efficient management skills.Another example is McDonald’s, the world’s largest chain of fast food restaurant located internationally. The CEO James A. Skinner believes that by offering training programs, such as McDonald’s Management Development Program, managers can build a fully understanding of the company’s policy and the basic skills of manager when working with other people in the McDonald’s Crew (McDonald’s, 2011). This enables mangers to deliver a better management performance when dealing with conflicts. As a result, staff can crea te a harmony team environment and maintain effective achievement.The above two examples indicates that conflict management is crucial in the success of organizations. Lastly, leadership is vital in team-oriented workplaces. Ivancevich & Matteson (2002, p. 45) define team leadership as â€Å"the process of influencing others to facilitate the attainment of organizationally relevant goals†. Leadership is important as it has been addressed as essential to achievement in teams(Gill, 2006, p. 1). A team leader with distinct leadership skills are able to help members to further the achievement of success.Good leadership skills include clear vision, the ability to spot the difference between team members, bring the team together to work towards the same goal and more (Armstrong, 2009, p. 36). All of these bring positive outcomes in teams. As a result, in nowadays organizations, leadership is one of the most vital aspect to be considered. The positive outcomes that team-based organiz ations achieve are visible. Carol Baines took over the Baines Company after the death of her husband, the previous owner of the company.She spent her time in the company to familiarize herself with the staff and operations of the company. She then analyzed the company’s situation and set a powerful set of term goals for the company. With her determined vision and remarkable leadership skill, she created a ‘family-like atmosphere’ for team members to work in. Members saw the clear goal of the company, thus significant success was achieved by the company (Northouse, 2010, p. 30). Another good leader is Steve Jobs, the CEO of America-based electronic company, Apple, Inc.. His good leadership skills have effectively bring success to the company.His quest for perfection has motivated his team to perform their best work quality. These two example makes it clear that leadership makes a huge different in maintaining effective outcomes of organizations. Conclusion To conc lude, this essay has examined three aspects of teamwork that are essential when working effectively with other people in business organizations, namely motivation, conflict management and team goals. It has also provided with real life examples that showed how organizations can incorporate numbers of skills and strategies to create the right team environment.First of all, motivation can create a positive team environment for team members to work effectively together. In addition, proper conflict management can reduce arguments and fights between team members in order to maintain efficient outcomes in organizations. Finally, leadership . Good teamwork certainly is beneficial in the operation of organizations and has become an important aspect to be considered. As s result, organizations should be aware of those aspects and utilize the ability of teams.

Cyber Bullying And Its Effect On Society - 883 Words

Cyber-bullying is the use of electronic communications to bully a person. Cyber-bullying takes place by using the Internet, cell phones, video game systems, and other technology. Cyber-bully sends or posts text or image that is intended to hurt feelings or embarrass another person in front of others. Bullying is an aggressive behavior which causes harm and stress to its victims and it escalates over time. Furthermore, everybody has mobile phones and they are using it all day long. There is certainly a difference how bullying has changed. Historically we have seen and may have been a victim of verbal or physical bullying, however today we all use technology so cyber-bullying is on its rise. In fact, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) records cyber-bullying â€Å"emerging† in the early 2000s (Nicol 3). The Internet has become a place where people communicate with each other everywhere. People have access to Internet twenty-four hours per day. Communicating with others via emails and various social websites is just like talking with people face to face. However, there are some people who try to hurt others feelings through the Internet and technology devices. Additionally, cyber-bullying has developed through the chat rooms, instant messaging, text messages, Facebook, Instagram, and with other social media websites. Online cyber-bullies can post and send humiliating messages about the victim. Cyber-bullies spread alternated pictures and even steal victim sShow MoreRelatedCyber Bullying And Its Effect On Society1536 Words   |  7 PagesBullying has been an extreme issue all around the world for hundreds of years, and since modern technology has advanced, so has cyber bullying. â€Å"‘Gimme’ your lunch money† has turned into texting and posting gruesome threats and embarrassing material all over social media. Millions of kids all over the world have taken their own lives due to the harmful effects of cyber bullying. Problems that cannot be resolved independently are brought to court, and the government has become increasingly involvedRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effect On Society1201 Words   |  5 PagesINTRO Cyber bullying is any form of bullying that takes place over the internet, whether via texts, twitter or other forms of social media. Approximately 52% of children have reported being cyber bullied at one point, or another*. While this number may not seem catastrophic, this statistic is based only on the instances of cyber bullying that have been reported. The reality is that there are many more children who have been cyber bullied, and did not tell anyone that it was happening to them. AnotherRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effect On Society Essay1396 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction There are two specific types of bullying. Bullying in itself and cyber bullying are two of the worst and most aggressive behaviors teenagers are involved in these days. No matter how this problem comes about or what process individuals go through to get to this point, it is an irresponsible yet dangerous form of action. Bullying in any form can cause harm to the victim, even death. Making a choice to be a bully is like that of building a bad character for one’s self. Definition CentersRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effects On Society1283 Words   |  6 PagesAbstract Social media has become a well known pastime for individuals of today’s society. There are various social media sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and SnapChat that have open doors for communication and entertainment among people all across the world. Despite the positivity of social media, it is also now being used to cause harm to people. Cyber bullying differs from traditional physical bullying, because it occurs through emails, texts, or social media. 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It causes an imbalance in which the stronger person or group attacks the weaker and initiates repeated mistreatment towards the same victim over an extended period of t ime. In a situation where insults escalate and bullying arisesRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effects On Society2249 Words   |  9 PagesIs Cyber Bullying as Bad as Face-to-Face Bullying â€Å"Some people won’t be happy until they’ve pushed you to the ground. What you have to do is have the courage to stand your ground and not give them the time of day. Hold on to your power and never give it away.† (Donna Schoenrock). In this day and age, there are so many new ways to connect with people all over the world through social media. One of the downsides is that it means that there are also new ways to harass others. Cyberbullying means theRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effects On The Society1288 Words   |  6 PagesPeople do not need to walk out their house to be brought down by the people’s of society, but rather now the people of society can kill them softly right there through their computer screen or cell phone. Cyber bullying is a form of bullying that has been taking place a lot more because of the improvement in technology and increased usage of social media. Something that has not really been established is punishment towards the pe rpetrator. Leading to many deaths of young innocent people, causingRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effects On Society1537 Words   |  7 PagesBullying has been going on for generations, it’s not a new topic. That doesn’t mean times haven’t changed. New technology has made it possible for people to bully one another without even having to be near them. This is called â€Å"Cyber Bullying†. Teens are turning electronic devices into â€Å"weapons† by using social networking websites, chat rooms, text messaging, and even more ways possible. Through this they call each other names, demean each other, and even threaten each other. Kids are put in seriousRead MoreCyber Bullying And Its Effects On Society2174 Words   |  9 Pages Cyber-bullying has been an ongoing issue for a very long time; overtime it seems as if over the last few years it has progressed even more due to the development and increase of technology. I believe that cyber-bullying has become one of the most difficult issues to resolve in our society. Cyberbullying can be such a difficult thing to face in a world like today. The victim is usually bullied by an individual or a group of individuals who use this as a way to cope and make themselves feel better