Analysis of three sun articles on the execution of Robert Harris Essay Example for Free

Analysis of three sun articles on the execution of Robert Harris Essay These three articles printed in the sun newspaper in 1992,approach the execution of Robert Harris in very different ways . The articles have chosen to cover different parts of the Robert Harris case. Article 1 is focused on the way Robert Harris died and the T. V reporter Michael tuck giving a graphic description of the execution and the build up to it . The second article is about he nuns including Mother Teresa who tried to turn the decision around so Harriss life could be spared. Article three gives a description of where and how the victims were murdered and what how the parents felt and thought of Harriss execution. The first article explains and describes what happened to Robert Harris. It starts with a detailed description of Harriss execution. Gurgled and gasped as cyanide gas choked the life from him. This has been written as the second sentence to give an immediate impact of disgust and it plays with your emotions and it makes you more interested and you want to read on. Once the writer has got the readers attention, he then goes to the lead up to the execution. The first article is very against the death penalty as when it talks about the execution was reprieved twice before he was finally gassed, the article tries to make you feel sorry for Harris. Michael Tuck describes the execution as grisly and not a humane way to die and in this he is confirming that he is against the anti-death penalty. Alternatively, article three is not against the anti-death penalty. It starts off with Harriss victims parents, giving there opinion on Harriss execution. One of the victims farther said I have no time for do-gooders who says that he should be spared look what he did to my son. Am I supposed to erase the memory, the pain of that. This is trying to make you feel sorry for the parents of the victims and it is trying to persuade the reader that capital punishment is good. Article two is set out in a bold headline, which reads NUNS MERCY BID and under the headline is a small paragraph. It mentions Mother Teresa Name to give a sort of good feeling to the article because Mother Teresa well know personality of being warm, nice and a gentle person and it says that she appealed to a California governor Pete Wilson to spare Harriss life this sort of makes you feel that if Mother Teresa is trying to safe his life then she must be doing the right thing and Harriss life should be spared. It says in the article that there were loads of anti-death sentence campaigners who urged for the killer not to be killed. This is a fact that many people wanted Harris to live and theres evidence of Mother Teresa point of view. Theres a couple of lines in this article that say that Harris had alcoholic parents and he was fifth of nine children terrorised by there farther. His lawyers said that he may have been brain damaged by a beating at the age of two. This could make the reader feel sorry for Harris and its not fair for Harris to be killed in this way but there no evidence that the article is true. The visual presentation in the articles plays a very important role. In article one, theres a big picture above the article of two chairs where Harris was probably killed I think that this picture is trying to make you feel sorry for Harris as the picture makes you feel a sort of horrific sense of dying and displays a horrible looking setting in where people are chained to chairs and then are choked with gas and then killed. Beside the picture is TV man watches Harris in gas chamber. This is very emotive language and makes the article more dramatic. In article two there is a photo of a man I think its Harris but it could be a different number of people maybe Michael Tuck watching the execution or is it Harris himself its good as it lets the reader speculate. All three articles are made up of fact an opinion. Article one is mainly made up of opinion it is nearly all Michael Tuck telling the readers what he thought. He said But IF you ask me this is not a clean and humane way to die This is Michael Tuck expressing his opinions on the execution. Article two has got a bit of opinion He said he may have been brain damaged by a beating at the age of two The words may have means that not necessarily true. The only fact in this article is that Mother Teresa fought with other campaigners to spare Harriss life. Article three appears to be a balance of fact and opinion. The first half of the article is mainly opinion. Theres the victims parents saying what they think about Harriss execution. They were out for a fun day fishing when they were executed by this beast. It is the parents opinion that Harris is a Beast. The second half of the article seems to tell more fact, it says how the victims were killed, for the first time across the three articles. But after telling the story theres still opinions added. The grinning Harris calmly ate the boys hamburgers. There is know way that anyone could of none this so this must be opinion. In conclusion all articles have different stories, which all connect together, but as you can see Harris was an evil man as he shot two innocent boys dead for no reason at all. Language used in these articles is effective and ahs been used well to give you a clear picture of how Harris died and how he killed two innocent teenagers. People tried to save him but it didnt work. When all three articles are read separately they create a biased opinion on Harris execution, but when read together you have a balanced account of Harris case.

A Synopsis Of Tb Health And Social Care Essay

A Synopsis Of Tb Health And Social Care Essay Abstract TB or Tuberculosis being a bacterial disease is highly infectious but it has its cures and measures. The disease is a major point of concern in South Africa, especially in the areas of Western Cape. It is so common among them that one out of ten people develop this disease and if not treated in a timely and effective manner the infected person can affect 20 other people or more in a year. According to the World Health Organizations (WHOs) Global TB Report 2009, South Africa ranks fifth among the 22 high-burden tuberculosis (TB) countries. South Africa had almost 460,000 new TB cases in 2007, with a frequency rate of a projected 948 cases per 100,000 population a major raise from 338 cases per 100,000 population in 1998. (Source, (World Health Organization Statistics, 2009). A Synopsis of TB Tuberculosis being a bacterial disease is caused by micro-organism, a bacilli scientifically, Mycobacterium tuberculosis which enters the body by inhaling through the lungs. From where they can spread to other parts of the body through the blood, lymphatic system via airways or by direct transfer to other body organs. It develops in the body in two stages: Tuberculosis infection in which an individual breathes in the TB bacilli and becomes infected but the infection is contained by the immune system. The other stage is when the infected individual develops the disease himself. Out of those people who do become infected, most will never develop the disease unless their immune system is seriously damaged for instance by stress, HIV, cancer, diabetes or malnutrition. The bacteria remains dormant within the body if the patient is BCG injected. BCG immunization at the time of birth provides up to 80% protection against the progression TB infection to take form of a disease. A basic sign of TB is consistent cough of two weeks, so the earlier the patient goes to the clinic to get a check up, the more curable it is. Other severe signs are bleeding in cough, night sweating, weight-loss and short-breathing. TB in South Africa Africa and southern Africa In their 1997 reports on the tuberculosis epidemic and on anti-tuberculosis drug resistance in the world, the WHO paints a bleak picture of the global failure of health service providers to deal with the burden of tuberculosis. In the 216 reporting member countries of the WHO, representing a total population of 5,72 billion, there were an estimated 7,4 million new cases of tuberculosis in 1995. This represents a rate of 130 cases among every 100 000 persons. In Africa the case rate is 216 per 100 000. The 11 countries of the Southern Africa subregion contribute approximately 275 000 cases every year to the total case load in Africa. Almost half of these come from South Africa. In an analysis of tuberculosis trends and the impact of HIV infection on the situation in the subregion, it is estimated that by 2001 the smear positive case rate would have increased from 198 per 100 000 population for the region as a whole, to 681 per 100 000 if tuberculosis control efforts are not optimised. To aggravate the situation, 69% of these cases would be directly attributable to HIV infection.1 A serious complication of the tuberculosis problem in Southern Africa has been the emergence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains of the organism causing the disease. Patients infected with MDR require prolonged chemotherapy with very expensive medication which will at best cure only half of them. Such treatments cost at least 100 times as much as the cost of curing an ordinary tuberculosis patient infected with drug-sensitive bacteria. Very few countries can afford this additional burden. In order to determine the magnitude of the MDR problem in Southern Africa, and the implication for National Tuberculosis Programmes (NTPs), surveys are being conducted in various countries as part of the activities of the WHO/IUATLD Global Working Group on Tuberculosis Drug Resistance Surveillance. So far, information is available for four countries in southern Africa: Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland. Results confirmed that initial resistance to first-line drugs is relatively low in southern Africa compared to some other regions in Africa and Asia where the problem is up to 5 times more common. Resistance rates range between 4% and 12% for isoniazid, and between 4% and 7% for streptomycin. For rifampicin it is 1% and for ethambutol 1%; MDR is fortunately still low at 1%, indicating that resistance strains are not commonly transmitted from person to person. On the other hand, rates for acquired resistance, that is resistance which has arisen in patients previously inadequately treated for tuberculosis, are at least three times higher than in patients not previously exposed to anti-TB medications. The high rates of acquired resistance point to a failure of control programmes to effectively manage case-holding and treatment adherence. TB Treatment The full course treatment time can stretch up to eight months with consistency as a major factor. People who stop treatment develop a multi-drug resistance which makes the disease more complicated. TB can prove fatal if not treated. The treatment is in two phases: The intensive phase consists of taking four different drugs for five days a week, for two to three months. The continuation phase consists of taking two drugs for five days a week for four to five months. Sputum tests are regularly taken every two months for keeping a check on the progress. DOTS The Department of Health in South Africa has implemented the World Health Organizations DOTS (directly observed treatment short course) technique to make sure patients adhere to treatment. DOTS have been implemented in a good number of clinics in the Western Cape. An essential element of the strategy is the support and back-up offered to TB patients for the entire six to eight-month treatment phase, where they are directly observed taking their medication at the clinic. The DOTS strategy is embedded in the following principles. Government Commitment The support of the national and provincial Heads of the Department of Health has significantly helped South Africa to implement the DOTS strategy. This support is essential because DOTS requires significant changes of approach and tends to challenge old practices. Although the strategy offers the least expensive way of tackling TB, often it requires substantial redirection of funds and this cannot happen without the political commitment and support of key decision makers. Directly Observed Treatment Short-course as a global initiative, is a breakthrough that is increasingly providing solutions to the control of the TB epidemic in South Africa. However, it is a new strategy and as such may seem at first complicated and confusing. This merely shows the need to effectively and adequately reorientate our resources and train health staff and treatment supporters to this strategy. This means that each one of us from all sectors has a major role to play. TB is everywhere and as such effective TB control should be practised everywhere. Good TB control is part of good district development. 2.2 Identifying Infectious Patients TB is a bacterial disease and bacterial tools should be used to manage it. The TB Control programme is moving away from chest x-rays as a primary method of diagnosis. A crucial element of DOTS is to use microscopes to ensure that infectious TB is reliably and cost -effectively diagnosed. The first priority and the key issue in the new programme is to cure infectious patients at the very first attempt to slow down the epidemic. The over use of x -rays is discouraged as the primary means to confirm the diagnosis of TB because it does not tell whether a patient is infectious, and it is difficult to distinguish between active TB and other lung diseases or scarring. This leads to over diagnosis so that health workers could be treating many patients that do not have active TB and are not sick with TB. More importantly, the TB epidemic in South Africa is approaching uncontrollable levels and energies should be concentrated on curing infectious TB patients to stop the spread of this disease. Only bacteriology identifies infectious patients. 2.3 Direct Observation of Treatment The implementation of DOTS ensures that every TB patient should have the support of another person to ensure that they swallow their medication daily. The treatment supporter does not have to be a professional health worker, but can be any responsible member of the community. Employers, colleagues and community members can act as treatment supporters. Using family members is often problematic but has been successful in exceptional cases. This person should know the signs and symptoms of TB, side effects of TB drugs and the importance of taking TB medication regularly for the patient. They should also motivate and empower patients and their families and provide them with a better understanding of TB and the importance of cure. Treatment supporters are best recruited as part of a community based system which is reviewed annually and its results documented. Treatment supporters should work closely with local health authorities. Because of the length of time, the patient has to take treatment, completing TB treatment is a special challenge and requires an unyielding sense of commitment. This may be easy to sustain while the patient feels sick. However, after a few weeks of taking treatment, patients often feel better and see no reason for continuing their treatment. It is thus essential for health workers or treatment supporters to be supportive and use the initial period to bond with the patient. This will enable them to build a strong relationship in which the patient believes and trusts advice given by the treatment supporter. 2.4 Standardized Drug Combinations A daily dose of a powerful combination of medications is administered to TB patients for five days a week. Combination tablets simplify treatment and ensure that drugs are not given separately and therefore decrease the risk of drug resistance. 2.5 Reliable Reporting System A reliable recording and reporting system is necessary in order to monitor progress. Sputum results should also be recorded to document smear conversion. This gives an accurate measurement of performance and one can identify areas which need support. The First Step to Filling the Country with DOTS: Setting up Demonstration and Training Districts (DTDs) in 1997 was one of the first crucial steps in the implementation of the DOTS strategy. In South Africa at least one Demonstration and Training area was identified in each province where all the elements of DOTS would be adopted in the management of TB services. Initially these areas would receive the necessary resources and support to ensure that they function well. When these districts demonstrate success in implementing DOTS they can be used as examples and training points to expand DOTS provincially and country-wide. Major Barriers Everyday TB kills nearly 5000 people, which is one person every 20 seconds. (WHO, Global TB Report, 2009). There is a presence of numerous barriers while accessing TB care especially in the poor communities: Economic Barriers Delay in seeking health care occurs due to lack of money for transport plus the time lost working. Socio-cultural Barriers Lack of awareness and stigma about TB. Geographical Barriers Long distances from health care facilities and TB diagnosis and treatment centers. Health System Barriers Delays in diagnosis as a result of knowledge lapse among health care workers. The ever existing barriers to the success of the targets involve overlooking of TB control by government, lack of monetary and human resources to provide regulation and quality control, weak and stigma health systems, poorly managed TB control health centers, poverty in majority of communities, population escalation and a significant boost in drug-resistant TB (particularly MDR-TB) and the recent, extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB). Lack of new diagnostic tools has impeded progress in TB control programs. Perhaps the greatest challenge to achieving the TB targets, however, has been the ever-growing HIV outbreak and the resultant increase in HIV-associated TB. A regional emergency was once declared in the large parts of this region due to unrestrained epidemic of HIV-associated TB.  The start of such an epidemic as the TB/HIV one has seriously compromised even historically firm national TB programs working globally. TB programs are weighed down by this increasing volume of HIV-associated TB cases and by the necessity to manage cases and ensure treatment completion. in addition, TB is the leading source of death among HIV-infected persons, and HIV is the strongest forecast of progression from dormant TB infection to active disease. Thus, TB programs that were almost up to the mark by WHA-set global TB targets have seen their treatment and completion rates plummet. The TB/HIV combination has also had a remarkable impact on human resources.  In a labor force that has remained the same or shrinked, the increased overall number of TB patients has damaged TB programs infrastructure and amplified poor TB results such as treatment default, death and the emergence of XDR-TB. The HIV-associated TB epidemic has led to an escalating rate of smear-negative and extra pulmonary TB;  these forms of TB do not add to the case-detection targets and are more difficult to identify. Moreover, smear-negative TB has a worse prediction than smear-positive TB amongst those who are also HIV-infected. TB and HIV The HIV outbreak has led to a massive increase in the number of fatal TB cases. TB is not accountable for a third of all deaths in HIV infected people. People with HIV are far more vulnerable to TB infection, and are not as much able to fight it off. Recent studies by Wood, (2007) in a region with an approximate HIV prevalence of about 20% in Cape Town, calculated that the pulmonary TB-warning rate among HIV-infected persons in that area amounted to 5,140 cases per 100,000; and that the rate amongst HIV-uninfected individuals in the same area was 953 cases per 100,000. Using these statistics, the determinable fraction for TB among HIV-infected individuals in that area aggregated to 82 percent. Conclusion Recommendations The overall purpose of the project is to identify risk factors and make appropriate recommendations based both on the available evidence and the studies that stem from this project. As such, recommendations are structured in terms of the conceptual framework of this document. Nevertheless, the existing evidence from current data and literature reviews allows us to pinpoint areas where interventions are clearly required. On these grounds, we can make certain recommendations. Introduce epidemiologically-led behavioural interventions Reference has been made to the heterogeneity in HIV prevalence in the province (Shaikh et al, 2006). This unevenness is also apparent in the provincial TB profile. It is therefore important to identify the geographical focal points for interventions according to this disease distribution that has been identified by routine surveillance. Populations at high risk for infection may be identified according to geographical area, as well as according to other demographic factors such as age, sex and socio-economic status. By raising awareness in populations at high risk and targeting specific high risk behaviors, interventions will be more effective in lowering the incidence of new infections. Target hotspots first Once populations at risk have been identified, geographically discrete regions should be selected for resource allocation and focused interventions. An implementation of interventions based on the known and expected burden of disease will prioritise the roll out of a prevention strategy. Prevention efforts that address HIV infection should identify areas and populations where there are certain risk factors and areas of high HIV prevalence must apply concentrated intervention of TB programmes. Identify and manage at-risk groups earlier Behavioural and communication strategies for highest risk groups must be pro-active in their efforts, and target the false sense of security that exists regarding the risk of HIV infection. At-risk populations should include vulnerable groups such as women, and also specific groups such as prisoners, commercial sex workers, mobile persons and labour migrants. Awareness of the risk of TB among HIV infected people must be raised both in communities and within the health service. Integrate prevention and treatment While evaluating the effectiveness of prevention programmes within an epidemiological context, the potential future impact of treatment of both HIV/AIDS and TB needs to be examined. Adapt relevant public services Goal-directed partnerships between social-cluster group departments should be actively pursued. Resource allocation must be rationalised within a broader spectrum than only the health services. The high burden of TB must be taken into account in this process, and be assigned equal importance as the efforts against the spread of HIV. In addition to intersectoral collaboration towards intervention for both these infectious diseases, more effort must be made to integrate the management of HIV/AIDS with TB. .

Casablanca :: Films Movies

Casablanca 1942, the year of the creation of one of the most historical movies known to date. That movie, Casablanca, based on the play "Everybody Wants to go to Rick's", still captivates audiences around the world. The setting of the movie is Casablanca, Morocco during the second world war. Casablanca is the jump off point to get to Spain and then to America, but refugees must obtain a fairly costly exit Visa to get onto the plane. In the middle of all this is Rick's cafe. Rick's former love Ilsa comes to Casablanca on her way to America and discovers Rick to be a resident there. The love triangle between Ilsa, her husband Laszlo, and Rick keeps the viewer in suspense until the very last minutes of the movie. This movie contains all the factors that a make a movie a classic. It has great performances by a top cast, a flawless script story line and director, and superb production techniques. In addition, it blends a raging love story with tormenting schemes which makes it one of ! the best Hollywood movies of all time. Casablanca was never expected to be a large scale movie. The script was written on a day to day basis even till the last few moments of the movie but despite all that, it made it bigger than any other movie in it's time. The movie took place in 1942 and was based around world war II which in reality was taking place as they filmed. It was because of the war that Rick and Ilsa were separated, and this was an idea that was not so far fetched and something that the audience could identify with. This was important because it captivated the audience and drew them in to see if Rick and Ilsa's undying love would ever be reunited. There are many classical quotes that were used in Casablanca, some of which we still hear being used today. The most famous of course would be 'here's looking at you kid", and who could forget, "play it again Sam", which later became a title for another film. "This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship", "but we'll always have Paris", "go ahead and shoot, you'll be doing me a favour", these are yet another three quotes which stuck in the minds of audiences everywhere. These quotes help keep the movie and the memories of the actors and actresses alive even fifty seven years after the original shooting. Let's not forget the variety of great music the viewer is Casablanca :: Films Movies Casablanca 1942, the year of the creation of one of the most historical movies known to date. That movie, Casablanca, based on the play "Everybody Wants to go to Rick's", still captivates audiences around the world. The setting of the movie is Casablanca, Morocco during the second world war. Casablanca is the jump off point to get to Spain and then to America, but refugees must obtain a fairly costly exit Visa to get onto the plane. In the middle of all this is Rick's cafe. Rick's former love Ilsa comes to Casablanca on her way to America and discovers Rick to be a resident there. The love triangle between Ilsa, her husband Laszlo, and Rick keeps the viewer in suspense until the very last minutes of the movie. This movie contains all the factors that a make a movie a classic. It has great performances by a top cast, a flawless script story line and director, and superb production techniques. In addition, it blends a raging love story with tormenting schemes which makes it one of ! the best Hollywood movies of all time. Casablanca was never expected to be a large scale movie. The script was written on a day to day basis even till the last few moments of the movie but despite all that, it made it bigger than any other movie in it's time. The movie took place in 1942 and was based around world war II which in reality was taking place as they filmed. It was because of the war that Rick and Ilsa were separated, and this was an idea that was not so far fetched and something that the audience could identify with. This was important because it captivated the audience and drew them in to see if Rick and Ilsa's undying love would ever be reunited. There are many classical quotes that were used in Casablanca, some of which we still hear being used today. The most famous of course would be 'here's looking at you kid", and who could forget, "play it again Sam", which later became a title for another film. "This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship", "but we'll always have Paris", "go ahead and shoot, you'll be doing me a favour", these are yet another three quotes which stuck in the minds of audiences everywhere. These quotes help keep the movie and the memories of the actors and actresses alive even fifty seven years after the original shooting. Let's not forget the variety of great music the viewer is

Why Public Speaking is Important :: Public Speaking Persuasive Essays

Public speaking is one of the most under rated skills learned in school, yet is one of the most valuable. The way you communicate shows a lot about you, and can influence other’s opinions of you. In every profession communicatiis important. Good communication skills, no matter what you plan to do in life, will help you out greatly and improve your chances against a harsh job market. I am majoring in Business Administration and Law, and communication is one of the biggest parts of business and law, yet communication is hardly ever taught in business classes for my major. I think that a communications class like public speaking, for example, should be not just for a college class, but taught in high school and middle school as well. I believe several classes would allow anyone to become an expert speaking. The only way to fully learn public speaking is to get up in front of people and talk to them. One can not learn public speaking from a book. One’s career, school life, and even socializing are affected by communication. If you do not know how to communicate, you probably do not have many friends. Communication has been used since the days of the cavemen. When the cavemen learned to communicate they greatly increased their hunting potential. When they learned to communicate on the hunt and before the hunt, they caught much more game then when they were just randomly running after the animals with spears. In school, if teachers and students could not communicate well, how would anything ever get done? In a business, communication is the most important ingredient. Working at a corporation at a higher level, you deal with hundreds of important emails, meetings, phone calls, and other forms of communicating with your co-workers. I like communicating with other people, and much of my life consists of me with my friends. Communicating with people is a good way to become social and comfortable around people. Public speaking is my least favorite part of communicating but I feel if I go into business, it will be one of the most important things to learn. If I have to give a big speech, it could be the first time several upper management bosses really hear what I have to say, and if I give a poor speech and look frightened, it could make them think I am incompetent and cannot communicate.

The Bicycles Changed America Essay -- Exploratory Essays Research Pape

The Bicycles Changed America The great changes in American society that came with the introduction bicycle in the late 19th century are often overshadowed by the influence of the automobile in the following decades. Today, bicycles are often seen as an alternative mode of transportation - a cleaner and more environmentally conscious form of travel. Because of this, it may be difficult to realize the incredible modernizing effects that bicycles had on American society when they were first introduced. Manufacturing and marketing techniques introduced by the bicycle industry were massive steps towards modern industrial practices. In addition, by making individual travel available to many people for the first time, bicycles changed the speed at which life flowed in much of America. Bicycles granted a degree of personal freedom of mobility to many for the first time, and their effect on the women's rights movement of the time was notable. Bicycles were used in war, by police, and by the postal service, among others. In countless walks of life, the availability of personal travel offered by bicycles had an incredible impact on American society. According to Robert Smith, the history of the bicycle goes like this: in the late 18th century and early 19th century, a two-wheeled vehicle with a wooden frame and a saddle, known as the celeripede ("fast feet") was developed in France. The celeripede had a fixed cross-bar and no pedals, meaning that it could not be steered very well and it was moved by running along the ground while straddling the saddle. Needless to say, it never became popular. Around the same time in Germany, Baron Karl von Drais de Savebrun developed a similar machine, with the difference that his had handle-bars... ...cle caused a massive change in both manufacturing and marketing in America. Bicycles represented a great increase in the speed of life and in the travel options of individuals. Perhaps it is because of their current position in our society as an alternative mode of travel that it is often difficult to imagine what a difference they made on modern life. Sources Cited: Botkin, Nancy. "Women on Wheels: Riding the Freedom Machine." 2003. http://www.sfbike.org/OLD_site/www/news/html/2000/march/01march2000.html Maree, D.R. "Bicycles in the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902." 2003. http://www.rapidttp.com/milhist/vol041dm.html Sherr, Lynn. "Failure is Impossible: Susan B. Anthony in Her Own Words." New York: Random House Inc. 1995 pp 277 Smith, Robert A. "A Social History of the Bicycle: Its Early Life and Times in America." New York: American Heritage Press. 1972

Mis in Microfinance

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR MICROFINANCE| ABSTRACT ICT can be a strategic tool in making Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) more efficient and effective. MFIs can reach more people in a more economic way by implementing the right Management Information System (MIS). While a few MFIs are making good use of technology, the majority are facing difficulties in getting the right solution. Reasons for this include: * Insufficient organizational and human capacity * Unavailability of suitable MIS applications for microfinance * Diversity in business processes and frequent changes in procedures * Risk of failure of the MIS Diversity of geography and language * Unavailability of vendors and their capacity to implement and support IT solutions * High cost of IT solutions for MFIs * Lack of commitment of management and key decision-makers within an MFI * Lack of awareness about the importance of IT The back-office MIS is the backbone of any Information System solution and yet it has not rec eived much attention. MFIs, whether large or small, need to have a strong back-office MIS before attempting to deploy any advanced front-end applications or delivery channels.These would be worthless without having a strong and flexible back-office MIS in place. INTRODUCTION Management information systems (MIS)  have played a key role in the traditional banking sector for years, but microfinance institutions have been much slower to utilize this technology, primarily due to budgeting shortfalls. A  2009 CGAP survey   found that many microfinance institutions lack well-functioning information systems that would enable them to grow into vigorous institutions. Technology was consistently cited as one of the greatest challenges facing MFIs.Over the last several years, however, more and more MFIs have begun implementing information systems, which has the potential to provide several benefits to the industry as a whole and to MFIs in particular; ranging from loan tracking to greater transparency and risk management. Management information systems are essentially applications which enable an institution to better organize its data for the purposes of decision-making, efficiency, and external reporting. Rather than hidden within a pile of manila folders, the data is crisp, up to date, and presented in a compelling and practical form.Benefits include easier cash-flow management and forecasting, timely information regarding portfolio risk, real time performance updates, more efficient accounting procedures, and simplified external reporting. In sum, a good MIS can increase an organization’s efficiency and decrease its operating costs. The biggest hurdle to the utilization of such technologies among MFIs has been the prohibitively high cost of purchase and implementation. The CGAP survey found that a majority of MFIs use either custom-built or off-the-shelf systems to track their portfolios.But a new innovation,  SaaS  (Software as a Service), has been c hanging that. Typically the SaaS software vendor hosts the application on its web servers, which the customer can download on his mobile device or computer terminal on an on-demand basis. This system provides MFIs 24/7 access from anywhere in the world, real time information, data security and automatic backup. With an SaaS system an organization pays monthly â€Å"rent†, or in some cases a variable fee based on usage levels, for access to the software provider’s application.Instead of â€Å"buying† the software and using it in isolation, the purchaser gains access to the provider’s online cloud, and utilize the internet to deposit, organize, and access their information. With this changed cost structure, more and more MFIs have been able to integrate MIS into their organizational structure. SaaS technology is designed to serve international microfinance networks, such as Opportunity International, as well as national MFI branches, such as  Cresa Financ ial Services in India. Accordingly, SaaS services are emerging as the MIS model of choice for microfinance institutions.Difficulties in Adopting MIS A number of MIS solutions are emerging. Currently, there are 56 MIS applications listed on the CGAP website, although more are being used by various organizations that are not publicized. Despite the advances in MIS, practical experience shows that the acquisition of a suitable MIS is not simple. Many MFIs are struggling with their MIS. Some of the reasons for these difficulties are: * Microfinance operations are unique and complex, compared to commercial, retail banking. The Microfinance sector is still evolving and lacks standardization in its procedures, methodologies, customer characteristics, type of transactions and reporting. * There is no of-the-shelf software available that can address the requirements of every MFI. * Those MIS that are available are complex and costly for adoption by MFIs. * MFIs lack human and organizational capacity to develop or select an appropriate MIS. * MFIs operate in remote and difficult areas where communication and power infrastructure do not exist and are therefore constrained from using IT equipment required to run MIS applications.Outlook of MFIs It is evident that the MFIs around the world are diverse in their structure and practices. Following are some of the factors that differentiate MFIs from each other: 1. Type of organization: * NGO * MFI (non-regulate) * Regulated MF Institution * Microfinance banks 2. Type of Products and Services: * Minimalists (those who offer only credit services) * Loans as well as savings services * Full range of products (including loans, deposits, remittance, insurance, leasing and social services) 3. Organizational Structure: * Branch setup (small, medium and large) Staff structure * Departments (cost centre and profit centre) 4. Geography: * Area specific (operations are limited to a small area) * Country specific (operations are spread ov er an entire country) * Global operations (operating in multiple countries) 5. Operational Environment: * Rural areas * Urban areas * Other 6. Processes and procedures: * Models (associations, cooperatives, credit unions, Grameen, etc. ) 7. Regulatory environment 8. Reporting: * Management reporting * Stakeholder reporting * Microfinance networks and peer group reporting Information Systems used by MFIsThe microfinance sector is also quite diverse in its use of information systems. Generally there are the following three types: 1. Manual System Some MFIs still rely on manual systems, which involve maintenance of records in forms and ledgers. Organizations having manual systems are either small micro-credit programs or NGOs. 2. Semi-automated System More than 50% of MFIs are operating in a semi-automated mode. Within this category, the spreadsheet is the common tool being used either in conjunction with a manual system or with an MIS application that does not fulfill the information requirements of the MFI.The majority of non-regulated MFIs have semi-automated systems. 3. Fully Automated System Few MFIs are fortunate enough to have a fully automated and integrated MIS, fulfilling the whole information requirements of the organization. Such systems are existent with banks or regulated MFIs. Disadvantage of manual systems: Some of the disadvantages of manual Information Systems are: * Too laborious and time consuming. * Prone to Errors. * Data manipulation and analysis is very difficult. * Maintenance of large amount of data is almost impossible. * Data and information is not secured. Loosely controlled. * Highly inflexible (addition of new products and change in business processes). Benefits of computerized MIS to Microfinance There is no doubt that â€Å"the right information† at â€Å"the right time† at â€Å"the right place†, is crucial in decision making. Therefore, information and data is considered among the most valuable assets fundam ental to the success of an organization. The primary roles of the MIS are to capture information, create new information, store information, and convey information to the user. The two major objectives of MFIs are Outreach and Sustainability.MIS can add substantial value in achieving both the objectives: * A major advantage of MIS is that it provides easy access to accurate and up-to-date information. For example, loan officers get information on loans that need follow-up, branch managers can monitor daily progress of the branch, and senior management can get a full picture of the portfolio performance and quality. Customers also get quick information on their accounts, payments and balances. * Detailed information is captured on customers and their activities that can then be used to assess client business to assess impact.It is also useful in tracking historical information of clients. * Activities, such as disbursements, repayments, deposits, withdrawals and money transfers are c ompleted faster, better controlled and with minimum opportunity for errors. * Information is produced in user-required formats, which facilitates better understanding, setting priorities, objectives and strategy. * Key performance indicators provide an overview of the organization’s performance, efficiency and effectiveness of business procedures so that timely adjustments can be made. * Use of ICT helps make MFI services more interactive, accessible and transparent. In terms of innovation, ICT provides full flexibility to structure products and services to the needs of its target group. * Efficiency and productivity of staff is increased, as they are able to manage more products, customers, and transactions in less time. Integration and Consolidation With the growth and advancement of the microfinance industry, new innovations are being witnessed. Among these innovations, technology-based delivery channels and mechanisms are creating opportunities as well as intensifying the competitive environment for MFIs.These channels are not only targeted at lowering transaction costs and extending the reach of MFIs to large populations, but are also focused around customer convenience. These technology-based mechanisms enhance efficiency of the MFIs, while posing substantial challenges in managing such technologies. One of the main challenges is that of integration and consolidation. It is essential that the back office MIS has the flexibility to integrate with such systems. The back-office MIS has received little attention within the sector.The general perception is that new technology based delivery systems would easily integrate with the core MIS, whereas in reality it is not that simple. Examples show that MFIs that have adopted such systems without assessment of their core MIS are struggling to integrate these. Because of non-integration, MFIs fall back on electronic spreadsheets or manual procedures to prepare consolidated information. Integration and conso lidation are very important for MFIs and inability to integrate new technological innovations holds them back, making them less rather than more efficient.Back-office MIS â€Å"Starting Point for MFIs† The backbone of any Information System (IS) is the core MIS as it holds the critical data, and manages the information. All other systems are add-ons. A simple core MIS comprises of two parts: I. Database – data structure; an organized set of tables designed to the needs of the business. All data of the organization resides in these tables. ii. Application Software – comprises of the user interface, business processes, procedures, reports and queries. Fig 1: Core MISAdopting an MIS is strategically important for MFIs. They need to undertake a careful and detailed assessment of current and future needs before committing to a particular solution. Much of the system’s flexibility, expandability, and robustness depend on the strength of the backend components. Strong core MIS can deliver cost-effective integration of data, channels and processes, facilitating a single consolidated view of the whole portfolio. Core MIS can provide easy data entry for the backend database, making consolidation easy to achieve.Various studies reveal that a large number of MFIs operate manual systems despite having some kind of MIS in place. One of the reasons the MIS does not cope with the changing needs of the organization is that the backend does not have the right structure. It is important for both the MFIs and microfinance software vendors to concentrate and strengthen the Core MIS. Figure 2 shows a basic structure for the Core MIS for microfinance: Fig2: Core MIS for Microfinance Other Key Deciding Factors for IT SystemsWhile the MIS needs to fulfill the business requirements of the organization, but other factors including appropriate infrastructure and hardware are also important in the success and optimal utilization of information systems. We can c ategorize the components of an information system solution into five areas: 1. Physical Architecture (Electricity/Power & communication infrastructure) Physical architecture consists of basic wires or cables to gateways and powerhouses.Together with buildings, offices, and computers, the architecture provides services of voice, data, image and video transmission while the consistent power supply keeps everything live and running. Every system needs electric power, and if systems are required to communicate, then there must be an appropriate communication infrastructure. Usually MFIs operate in remote and underdeveloped areas where this is lacking. 2. Network Three types of environment setups could be made. i. Standalone Environment; MIS is run on individual PCs and data is stored locally. ii.Local Area Network (LAN); PCs are connected together to create a LAN. The network can be either peer-to-peer or client/server. Desirable is the Client/server network where data is stored and sha red through a server in a secure way. iii. Wide Area Network (WAN); Branch offices and operation units can be connected through a WAN. It requires proper communication infrastructure and involves high cost to establishing a WAN. For online systems WAN is critical. 3. Hardware Type of hardware depends on the network environment. A client-server environment requires server and switch for connecting the workstations / PCs. . Database Generally databases can be categorized as local and client-server. Each category has its own strengths and weaknesses. These details can help MFIs in selecting the appropriate database: i. Local databases there are a number of local databases but the most widely used databases are Microsoft Access, FoxPro, Paradox, and file maker. ii. Client/Server databases iii. Most popular client/server databases also called enterprise databases include; Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, Myself, Sybase, and Informix are some of the commonly used client/server databases: 5. Appli cationA combination of business processes and procedures, user interface, reports and controls operate on top of the backend system. A large variety of software development and report generation tools are available and used to write software applications. Getting the Right Fit MFIs face great challenges in choosing the right system solution that can best fit their business needs. An MIS for microfinance must have the following characteristics: 1. Cost effectiveness: Total ownership and lifetime system operations costs, including hardware, software, network, infrastructure and human resource. . Functionality & flexibility: Fulfill maximum of the current business requirement and flexible enough to incorporate future changes. Capture and generate relevant information on an individual, group, and at a consolidated level. 3. Reliability: Incomplete and unreliable systems are dangerously risky and can hamper the business. Such systems do not produce the right results and are unable to com plete processes to the desired level. Users could be misguided by such systems. 4. Simple to use: Should be user friendly and easy to setup and operate.Activities can be performed in a systematic way and flow. 5. Scalability: System should accommodate changes to products, services and delivery channels. It should grow as the business grows. For example, if the system design is scalable, it can be run on an individual PC, Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). 6. Integration: Combining data from multiple sources is of great importance to microfinance. Integration of branches to get single consolidated picture should be a priority. Challenges faced by MFIs * Microfinance is a rapidly changing industry. Due to the ongoing volution of the industry, MFIs face difficulty in defining business objectives, needs, priorities and limitations for acquisition of an MIS solution. There is lack of standardization within the microfinance sector, and business practices of MFIs differ f rom each other. Consequently, software developers face problems in coming-up with an MIS that can be used by most of the MFIs. Common failures are due to ill defined business process and procedures. * There is a shortage of skilled professionals who can understand technology as well as the microfinance industry, and be able to suggest the right solution.Such professionals can act as a bridge in filling the gap between use of ICT and microfinance operations * Majority of the MFIs do not have the technical capacity and required resources to understand, adopt and implement MIS solutions. * Most MIS solutions are not affordable to the majority of MFIs. * In some cases there is a lack of vision and commitment from the management towards use of technology * Integration is becoming one of the big challenges, as most of the MIS solutions for microfinance are built on weak platforms, thus not being flexible and scalable enough to integrate with emerging technologies and delivery channels.Rec ommendations: * FMFB’s experience of adopting technology suggests that MFIs should invest in relevant technologies after thorough and careful assessment of their requirements. The requirement should be addressed in perspective of current needs and future plans. * So far the core MIS of MFIs has been neglected. MFIs should get their core MIS right before opting for any kind of delivery system. * The software industry needs to do more in developing quality software for microfinance sector. * Capacity within institutions to manage technology is key to successful implementation and operation of its MIS.MFIs should employ skilled IT professionals on their staff. * MFIs must adopt MIS solutions that not only meet their needs but are also manageable by the MFI from all aspects. In some cases small and medium size MFIs go beyond their needs in adopting an MIS that ultimately becomes a drain on their resources. Such systems reduce the organizations overall efficiency and ultimately th eir sustainability. * MFIs can get maximum benefit by investing in technology, and putting in a better MIS solution that works for them. MIS is a strategic investment for MFIs. *Progressive policies that make ICT accessible and affordable to the majority of the population are important for encouraging the use of ICT within microfinance and for the development of the microfinance sector. Conclusion The use of ICT can rightfully be to the strategic advantage of MFIs. Innovations in ICT have transformed traditional approaches to microfinance, facilitating growth and reducing cost. Some of the players have already started getting the benefit by using MIS and similar IT solutions, while the majority of the MFIs have yet to realize the importance of its use to achieve outreach and sustainability.The implementation of the right MIS still remains a big challenge faced by MFIs. Efforts are also made from various corners of the world in overcoming these challenges. CGAP’s Information S ystem Support is a prudent initiative to assist MFIs in getting access to ICT, aligning their MIS and using the appropriate IT solution. One of the realizations is â€Å"first things first† i. e. having an appropriate core MIS first before other systems: keeping in mind the strategic importance of ICT to the microfinance industry, renewed efforts are required from all the stakeholders to overcome the challenges faced by the microfinance industry in taking on IT.References: – Cheryl Frankiewicz and published by CALMEADOW (2003). IT as a Strategic Tool for Microfinance in Africa – ADB Releases (2005). Pakistan Economic Update – Rao, M (2004), Microfinance & ICTs: Exploring Mutual Benefits and Synergy, Orbicom – Firpo, J. (2005), Championing Scale in Microfinance: Technology’s Role in Delivering Accessible Financial Services to the Poor

Are Women Better Parents Than Men Essay

Bringing up the children has been the mother’s duty since time immemorial. However, things are changing fast as there are single persons opting for adoption and couples unwilling to tide it through together who are opting to take up the job single handed. There is much to support the mother’s role as the primary caregiver of the family and the young ones, especially through reasons embedded in tradition as well as convenience. However, there have been many examples of single men coming forward, with the nurturing spirit surfacing strongly. Would they fare equally well as any woman or would they be at sea, if confronted by the daunting task of caring for a real child 24/7? The external responsibilities that a male usually carries out in a family—set up as the breadwinner and the protector—give him a tough aura that comes in the way of visualising him performing the mother’s role. However, this cannot be used as a benchmark to determine whether the man is capable of providing children with equal, if not more, tenderness, love and care. The perception that precedes any male when it comes to parenting may well have become redundant now, or is it still the same? Are men likely to fare badly at parenting, or have they become more sensitive to the needs of children in a changed environment? In fact some would rather believe that they better than the mothers as well. So do men actually make better parents than women? All individuals are different from one another and may respond or perform at different levels as per their individual capabilities. However, if a generalist idea has to be formed it would be so that women generally make the better parents as they have the innate maternal instincts that allow them to take the best care of their children. Women would have subconsciously built a bond with the child even before it is born. Carrying a child in the womb for nine month is sufficient for strong emotional ties to be formed that are beyond understanding of average human relationships. Nature has implanted the nurture and care automatically in women. Bringing up life in its first few years is extremely important and to ensure safety and survival the women are attuned intrinsically to this need. For the men this part might be the difficult bit. They are seen largely making valuable contributions in a child’s development after he/she has achieved control over bodily functions and has reached a certain level of comprehension. However, there are certain ways in which a father or a male can contribute in the upbringing of children that women cannot do complete justice to. Men are generally rational and logic driven and decisions/choices and actions are based on sound reason. The way a father can allow a child to go all out and grow up would not be possible with mothers, who are more protective and would be daunted by the slightest crunch in the heart. Of course, the exceptions are always there but the go getting spirit, courage and fierce determination can be imparted very well by the male only. It is important as it makes the child more worldly wise and equipped with a skill that will not be taught in any school as a part of the curriculum. An initial advantage that lies with the woman is that she is the one who is physically and mentally programmed naturally to do a better job of parenting. Women generally are more sensitive and attentive to even the smallest needs exhibited by the children. They are inherently good listeners, blessed with more patience to deal with hours of bawling. It can be very challenging to keep comforting little children as they are not able to express or communicate at times about what bothers, pains or frightens them. Mothers are usually patient at such time and are willing to put aside hours to calm and reassure them. The important part worth taking notice of is that the young years are really crucial in the formation of a self-confident and a secure individual. If the children are neglected and ignored, they are likely to shape up as insecure somewhere and no matter how much of inputs and care are given after they grow up, that deficit cannot be made up for. I personally think that women are more capable of adding this tremendous value to a child’s life. However, in the light of recent developments I would like to differ and cite the alternative point of view. The equations in today’s world are changing and the women are actively seeking employment and pursuing very challenging careers. Though the idea of motherhood is very fascinating, the actual process of bringing up a child can be very demanding. And here is where the male’s rational, organised and practical outlook counts. They can make it tick even in such a very demanding situation and hence men are capable of being better parents. I would still say that there is no doubting the fact that mothers make better parents as they are known to be more balanced, especially in crunch situations. If we were to take a neutral scenario where the financial pressure and the emotional mess of a broken household are absent, women are capable of dealing superbly with the task. Usually, the women are projected as emotional wrecks, poor decision makers and incapable of providing a secure future only in situations where they are not educated enough to go out and earn. Other than that, there are ample examples where independent single women have done a splendid job of parenting. I feel that the women are capable of a healthy left brain- right brain activity balance and create and nurture life adeptly. I do agree that there are some very valuable skill sets that may be the exclusive domain of women, but there is much that men may be capable of doing. Men are usually not known to be very expressive about their ideas or their feelings. They are more of the doers. The fact that I really appreciate about fathers is that they are capable of imparting many critical life lessons to their children without actually making them look like lessons. Children emulate their elders. A practical parent would teach the child to evaluate situations without really reacting at the drop of a hat. Men are good at controlling their emotions and by exhibiting more of the controlled reactions in crisis situations teach them calm, analytical approach. Then, there is the general conduct adopted toward the various people that instils etiquette, politeness and fist lessons in people skills. The other issue with the females is that even when the child has grown up, they may still be clinging on somewhere. Men will not be so edgy about letting go. I really feel that men are better parents as they are capable of a more hands off approach. TIt comes across as a logical conclusion of this debate that the role of both man and woman is equally significant as parents and it is not necessarily so that women make better parents. Most women make good parents as they are better listeners and tend to be more attentive to one’s needs. Being more sensitive than males, women can forge a closer relationship with their children. Father is commonly seen as the rationalist, but this is not always true. Some fathers can make better parents than mothers; and this could be largely attributed to an individual’s personal upbringing, the childhood he or she experienced and the values that they believe in. If one has had a loving family unit and an environment that made him/her feel loved, it inspires a quite confidence and self-assurance which further gets translated into further parenting. Therefore, it is really immaterial as to whether men or women make better parents. Anyone, with a more mature and balanced outlook is likely to do a better job of parenting—being hands off when required and involved when desired.