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Discuss the assumptions that underlie the classical and administrative decision making models
Management
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Q1: Discuss the assumptions that underlie the classical and administrative decision making models. Which model more closely aligns with your work and/or management style?
Decision making is a very crucial process in management. The process helps to settle one alternative as the most suitable to address an identified problem. Classical model is based on the concept of rationality in all processes. Under classical model it is assumed that the problem to be addressed is very clear and understood. In this case all decision makers comprehend the issues and know the origin, causes and implications of every course of action. The model also assumes that all the relevant information is with the decision maker. This leaves out room for speculation or uncertainty. The model also assumes that decision makers are objective and have no room for making mistakes. This leads to rationality in thinking and actions devoid of human failures and errors.
Administrative decision making model is based on the model of a typical organization where hierarchy is observed. This model assumes that there is one person or a small clique who are tasked with making key decisions. This is because organization has structures and systems. It also assumes that the top management should look into the needs of all stakeholders when making decisions. The management must therefore balance all the competing interests. It also assumes that the low level employees are less experienced and may not make proper decisions under conditions of uncertainties and ambiguities.
Administrative decision making model best describes my style. This is because it is based on realities in the business environment that is characterized by uncertainties and market dynamics.
Q2: Almost all managers are involved in business planning activities. Discuss why planning is important to managers within the organization
Planning is a managerial function that determines the success and sustainability of an organization. Managers must be involved in planning in all organizations. Planning is about goal setting. During planning goals are set and aligned with organizational vision and mission. It is the duty of the managers to steer the organization in achievement of its goals. They must ensure that the long term goals are achieved through short term targets by guiding employees to achieve them.
Planning involve strategy development. The managers make strategic decisions that help organizations to compete and survive in an evolving market. Planning function help managers to come up with strategies aimed at countering competition, marketing and expanding market share. Through well planned strategies, managers are able to deploy competitive strategies as outlined by Michael Porter. These include price and cost leadership, market niching and product differentiation.
Planning defines various tasks and how to accomplish them. Effective planning precedes other key managerial functions. These are organizing, leadership and organization control. Through planning, managers are able to come up with strategy implementation process, ensure that resources are available and employees are up to task. With the plans, managers are able to assign tasks, have human resource plans and supervise the implementation of strategies with a view to sustain successes and correct deviations. For example, the managers will have plans on how to measure achievement of set goals and motivate employees who work hard. The managers who plan in each stage have capacity and data needed in the implementation of all action plans and evaluation of the realized results. Managers must therefore be involved in planning. The planning process must be effective and focused on improvement of organizational performance by promotion flexibility, control, proper coordination, and sound time management.
Discuss the advantages andor disadvantages of nuclear power as a source of energy
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Discuss the advantages and/or disadvantages of nuclear power as a source of energy
The increasing debate of globalization has led to significant expansion of industrialization and changes in socio-economic and political demands across the world. In this respect, energy for industrial and domestic use has gained much demand and this has put various governments, private sector and scholars on research for efficient, renewable and clean energy. Most recent invention of nuclear power has attracted mixed reaction across the world based on its safety and sustained management.
There are benefits that can be accrued from nuclear power. It is seen as clean and feasible replacement of petroleum oil which is blamed on carbon emission and subsequent greenhouse effect (McKinney, et al. 223). The electric power capacity generated by this technology is more compared to alternative sources like hydroelectric power. It is worth to note that the dwindling whether significantly explain unreliable alternative sources of energy like hydroelectric, wind power and waves hence the advantage of nuclear energy which is not affected by climate change. In this regard, nuclear energy is reliable to serve industrialization and domestic demand with accurate predictability. Although this source of energy has been hailed as among the best, it has some shortcomings that need critical consideration. There is emerging threat of misusing this technology to develop nuclear weapons which is a contentious global security issue. Besides, the cost of maintaining the nuclear reactors is not within the reach of many nations and this raises questions on its sustainability. Considering the water required for cooling and supervisory manpower, this source of power poses real cost challenge. The most debated issue with this source of energy is past experiences of nuclear meltdown and the subsequent emission of radioactive substances in the environment (Apikyan and David 53). This is an eminent threat that characterizes this technology as experienced in Japan and Chernobyl nuclear explosions.
It is therefore important that further research is undertaken to discuss the emerging concerns on adoption of nuclear power across the world.
Works cited
Apikyan, Samuel, and David J. Diamond. Nuclear Power and Energy Security. Dordrecht: Springer, 2010. Print.53
McKinney, Michael L, Robert M. Schoch, and Logan Yonavjak. Environmental Science: Systems and Solutions. Boston: Jones and Barlett Publishers, 2012. Print.223
Discuss some of the ways in which engineers or applied scientist contribute to reduction in pollution
Discuss some of the ways in which engineers or applied scientist contribute to reduction in pollution
Introduction
Pollution is one of the threats limiting the ability of the globe to experience sustainable economic and environmental development. There are different types or categories of pollution: atmospheric, water, soil, vibration, noise, noxious odours, and ground subsidence. This makes it vital for the relevant authorities and individuals to adopt and implement adequate and substantive mechanisms towards reduction of pollution. Engineers or applied scientists have been essential in their contribution towards reduction of the pollution. Some of the mechanisms aiming to reduce pollution by engineers and applied scientists include adoption of safe waste disposal and recycling of used products such as plastic containers. The main objective of this research is to examine ways in which engineers or applied scientists contribute in reduction of pollution across the globe (Cason & Gangadharan, 2013).
One of the critical ways in which engineers or applied scientists contribute to the reduction of pollution across the globe is the integration of recycling mechanisms. Engineers continue to develop recycling mechanisms with the aim of recycling papers, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminium cans (Malla et al, 2013). This process or mechanism has the ability to execute two vital functions. The first function is the reduction of production emissions that contributes greatly to air pollution (Biswas et al, 2000). In addition, the approach focuses in conservation of energy across the globe. Moreover, engineers and applied scientists promote utilization of products requiring less packaging as well as recyclable brands in the modern society (Gurung et al, 2013). This is because of the need to reduce pollution. It is also vital to shop with canvas bags rather than paper or plastic bags. This approach enables the society to reduce wastes and emissions into the atmosphere thus reduction in the overall pollution rates and levels.
It is also critical to note that engineers or applied scientists contribute to the reduction of pollution through adoption and implementation of renewable energy mechanisms. This approach focuses on elimination or reduction of air pollution through reduction of the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. One of the effective mechanisms is utilization of solar panels towards generation of substantive towards execution of production activities within an organization. Moreover, renewable energy limits the tendency of human beings to exploit natural resources for generation of energy (Shuxiao et al, 2010). These mechanisms have been essential in conserving energy as well as reduction of air pollution across the globe. In addition, individuals now have the ability and opportunity to procure green electricity under the production of low or zero pollution facilities. This results under the efforts of engineers or applied scientists aiming to reduce pollution as well as achieve sustainable development without jeopardizing the needs and preferences of the future generations. Various individuals now have the opportunity to connect their outdoor lights to a timer. In other cases, such individuals utilize solar lighting towards conservation of the energy and reduction of pollution across the globe.
Engineers or applied scientists also contribute to the reduction of pollution through development of systems and products in accordance with the EPA-certified models. For instance, engineers or applied scientists develop new stove models in accordance with the EPA-certified models. This approach focuses on replacing the traditional woodstoves while aiming to reduce the level of pollution or emissions into the atmosphere. In addition, engineers adopt and implement energy star products such as energy efficient lighting and appliances. These products and systems are environmentally friendly thus vital in the reduction of pollution across the globe (Renewable Energy, 2013).
It is also essential to highlight the role of the engineers and applied scientists in the development of efficient and low-polluting vehicle models. Introduction of electric vehicles and trains has been vital in the reduction of greenhouse gases emission into the atmosphere. It is also crucial to note that the approach demonstrates one of the ideal technological developments and advancements in the modern society (Grant, 2013). Moreover, engineers or applied scientists focus on the elimination or minimization of the use of oil or coal in the production activities (Earnhart & Lizal, 2008). This is because oil and coal contribute to large percentage of greenhouse gases emissions across the globe. Another aspect is the reduction of soil pollution through prevention of soil erosion. This is through adoption and integration of new mechanisms such as development of gabions to reduce loss of soil through erosion. These approaches are vital in the reduction of pollution across the globe thus the achievement of sustainable development without jeopardizing the needs and demands of the future generations.
Conclusion
There are various types or categories of pollution: air, soil, water, noise, and vibration pollution categories. These categories have different outcomes or implications on the development and other activities affecting the growth and existence of human beings in the modern and future societies. This makes it vital for the adoption and implementation of preventive mechanisms towards reduction of the levels of pollution. Engineers and other applied scientists have been on the forefront towards reducing pollution. This is through development of renewable energy, electric vehicles, trains, and other technologies aiming to conserve energy and reduce pollution.
References
Cason, T. N., & Gangadharan, L. (2013). Empowering neighbors versus imposing regulations: An experimental analysis of pollution reduction schemes. Journal Of Environmental Economics & Management, 65(3), 469-484.
Malla, M., Bates, E., Matthews, S., & Vianello, M. (2013). A Better Way Out. Mechanical Engineering, 24-29.
Shuxiao, W., Meng, Z., Jia, X., Ye, W., Yu, Z., Yu, L., & … Jiming, H. (2010). Quantifying the Air Pollutants Emission Reduction during the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Environmental Science & Technology, 44(7), 2490-2496.
Earnhart, D., & Lizal, L. (2008). Pollution reductions in the Czech Republic. Post-Communist Economies, 20(2), 231-252.
Gurung, A., Karki, R., Cho, J., Park, K., & Oh, S. (2013). Roles of renewable energy technologies in improving the rural energy situation in Nepal: Gaps and opportunities. Energy Policy, 621104-1109.
Renewable Energy. (2013). Chemical Business, 27(9), 19-22.
PR, N. (2011, December 21). Advanced Materials and Devices for Renewable Energy: Global Markets–Focus on Europe. PR Newswire US.
Grant, P. (2013). Walking the Walk of Renewable energy. Business In Calgary, 23(8), 28-30.
Biswas, A., Licata, J. W., McKee, D., Pullig, C., & Daughtridge, C. (2000). The Recycling Cycle: An Empirical Examination of Consumer Waste Recycling and Recycling Shopping Behaviors. Journal Of Public Policy & Marketing, 19(1), 93-105.
It’s not a waste of time. (2013). Vending International, 47(6), 18-19.