Hidden Burden :: essays research papers fc

Hidden Burden     In our society we are persuade every day and have been since we have exited the womb. What we dont realize is that we need to train our mind on our own to rise above every the systematically programmed propaganda. Unfortunately, due to this brain washing we are born into, we come packaged and wrapped with the lovely word stereotype prejudice embedded mystic in our mind without knowledge of it until it is confronted and exposed by pure ignorance      Now when you go to a dictionary the first definition most exchangeablely to be seen for stereotype is one like so " n. 1. a process, now often replaced by more advanced methods, for making metal printing plates by taking a mold of composed type or the like in papier-mch or other material and then taking from this mold a spue in type metal. 2. a plate made by this process. 3. a set form convention" (Websters,797). Further down from that definition should be something like "v.t. 1. to make a stereotype of. 2. to characterize or regard as a stereotype" (Websters,797). Although this definition is in a dictionary, the true meaning is far-off beyond that mild perception. The history of the word itself is a quite interesting one. In English, "stereo" is taken from the Greek "stere" or "stereo" - and which meant solid or solid body. Originally it was used to describe metal printing. "The conversion from printing to human psychology may have been commenced by early Russian neurophysiologists during the Pavlov level when stimulus-response motor mechanisms were being researched in animals and humans. In that sense, "dynamic stereotype" came to refer to the end-result of cortical analysis and synthesis of all stimuli arising from both the external and the internal world if the same response always occurred relative to the same stimulus" (Swann). Stereotype evolved into something all of us recognize, not as a type of printing, but as the negative word and feeling it is today.      In society stereotyping is around us constantly. Womens issues, homosexual issues, minority issues, everyday someone is confronted with a stereotype. For example, my friend Omar who is African American has been pulled over and harassed by the police for absolutely nothing. I was there and they didnt even ask me one question. They completely ignored me until I asked them what Omar did wrong. They just replied with "Mind your own business kid" I neer knew what is was to be like in Omars shoes that day and I never will.

Ken Keseys One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest :: One Flew Over Cuckoos Nest

tidy sum Kesey and One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest        One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, with its meaningful message of individualism, was an extremely influential novel during the 1960s.  In addition, its author, Ken Kesey, played a significant role in the development of the counterculture of the 60s this included all people who did not conform to societys standards, experimented in drugs, and just lived their lives in an outlaw(a) manner.  Ken Kesey had many significant experiences that enabled him to create One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest.  As a result of his entrance into the creative writing program at Stanford University in 1959 (Ken 1), Kesey moved to Perry Lane in Menlo Park.  It was there that he and other writers first experimented with psychedelic drugs.  After living at Perry Lane for a while, Keseys friend, Vik Lovell, informed him close to experiments at a local V.A. hospital in which volunteers were paid to take mi nd-altering drugs (Wolfe 321). Keseys experiences at the hospital were his first step towards writing Cuckoos Nest.  Upon experimenting the set up of the then little-known drug, LSD, ...he was in a realm of consciousness he had never dreamed of before and it was not a dream or delirium moreover part of his awareness (322).  This awareness caused him to believe that these psychedelic drugs could enable him to see things the way they were truly meant to be seen.        After working as a test subject for the hospital, Kesey was able to get a job working as a psychiatric aide.  This was the next significant factor in writing the book.  sometimes he would go to work high on acid (LSD) (323).  By doing so, he was able to understand the pain felt by the patients on the ward. In addition, the job allowed him to examine everything that went on within the confines of the hospital.  From these things, Kesey obtained exceptional insigh t for writing One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest.  To make the novel seem as possible as possible, he loosely based the characters on the personalities of people in the ward also, his use of drugs while writing allowed him to make scenes such as head word Bromdens (The Chief is the narrator of the story.

Essay --

Thus in the thinking about post-conflict reconstruction it is that policy oriented work, which primarily reflects an institutional capacity ascend to state developmentthis state will have a monopoly over the legitimate use of violence, maintain public order, generate employment, stabilize the economy, and provide demand services( Krasner 20106). This gives insight that institutions in their premises posses legitimate and authoritative power to govern. Imposed in proper way, trained and informed, this state settlement is licensed to experience new political agenda. Solely they consist tools and methods to implemented new codes of conduct and make civil society more effective. Economic growth mainly depends on their accuracy and effectiveness. Recapitulate, indeed institutions should be taken as primary concern in state building process before any upcoming change. lay out about democracy, it is seen as exogenous phenomena which certainly deems most appropriate political settlement for the country plainly according to above mentioned, it cannot operate without beforehand inductance of good endogenous components-institutions. Recommendation that strikes from above mentioned is that at most basic level democracies and capitalism presuppose a functioning of state apparatus but in state building agenda which is oriented solely toward promotion of democratization and marketization in intuitionally weak post-conflict environments is counterproductive.(Paris 2004205). Paris in this regard proposes strategy IBL that addresses to phenomenon of institutionalization, wherefore advantages of installing proper institutions before liberalizing the field. The dilemma of IBL (Institutionalization before Liberalization) IBL solution and its p... ...nce, on one side the actions taken by UN peace mission come up to $19.9 billion and on the other side during same period cost up to $6.9 trillion were used for military enforcement in different parts of the world, which when it comes to costs and values of human lives neglects the fact of lavish international assistance in terms of state building process.(Paris 2004 211). From this derives that all this dangers could be easily maneuvered with patient and prioritized actions. in the long run by promoting gradual controlled liberalization combined with the immediate construction of domestic institutions that are capable of managing destabilizing effects of democratization and marketization, IBL strategy seems more compatible and innocent for state building process.(Paris 2004211). As such prioritization of actions encountered under its umbrella should be considered.

Lack of Rule of Law in China Essay -- International Law

Aristotle once stated, The rule of law is better than that of any individual. The essential characteristics of rule of law argon the supremacy of law, meaning both the organisation and individuals are subject to the law a concept of justice that emphasizes interpersonal adjudication, based on importance of standards and procedures restrictions on discretionary power and exercise of legislative power by the executive independent judiciary, judicial precedent and common law methodology prospective, not retrospective legislation and underlying moral infrastructure for law. (Cooray) In China, the justice system has been based on rule by law, also known as rule of men instead of rule of law. In other words, law has been an instrument of the government, which holds itself above the law as opposed to law being supreme. The goal of laws here are to protect the interests of the state, not the individual, and to oblige stringent social control. Chinas leaders are beginning to realize that e stablishing the rule of law is critical to Chinas ability to underpin its rapid economical growth. The lack of legal knowledge and transparency, the complex judiciary and legislative system and cultural barriers rooted deeply in society are just a few main reasons responsible for an inadequate rule of law in China. Due to the lack of tradition of rule of law and the Chinese Communist go againsty rejection of the kind of liberal democratic government associated with it faces multiple challenges in its establishment. Understanding the importance of modernizing Chinas culture has had leverage on the political and economic level have substantially increased the progress of reform towards the use of rule of law. Being the oldest continuous major world civilization... ...accountability of the Chinese police. Policing -Bradford- 20, no. 1 113-135. British Library Document Supply Centre Inside Serials & Conference Proceedings, EBSCOhost (accessed March 25, 2012).Wong, Kam C. 2009. Chi nese Policing History and Reform. New York Peter Lang.Wong, Kam C. 2011. Reform to police accountability. In guard Reform in China, by Kam C. Wong, 299-363. CRC Press.Wong, Kam C. 2004. The police legitimacy crisis and police law reform in China Part I. International Journal Of Police Science & Management 6, no. 4 199-218. Academic Search Complete, EBSCOhost (accessed March 25, 2012).Wong, Kam C. 2005. The police legitimacy crisis and police law reform in China Part II. International Journal of Police Science & Management 7, no. 1 1-14. Academic Search Complete, EBSCOhost (accessed March 25, 2012).

Companies, Ethics, and Privacy of Personal Information Essay -- Privac

IntroductionPersonal data is quickly becoming a commodity in todays high engineering world. This culture is used by banks, investment and brokerage companies, credit card merchants, government agencies (local, state and federal), and consumer product-based companies. Most people probably dont realize the amount of information thats allotd between companies, or how often its done. Many companies sell and share customer data to help sell products and find out what new products they should produce. separate uses include gathering information about inventory levels to help better determine what types of products are bought at which store, when and how often. This can be used for inventory and production, to misrepresent sure that the store (or stores for chains, like Safeway and Longs Drugs) can have the products available when theyre needed.However, the same personal data is being compromised and eroding privacy. Companies have been getting bolder in their attempts to gather, share and sell data. The latest trend is outsourcing data to third party companies for data processing, which can be done at a lower cost. One of the main(prenominal) problems with this approach is that a lot of very sensitive data is being sent, which could be harmful in the wrong hands. Most companies require their customers to opt-out to prevent their data from being shared with a companys affiliates. This process requires the customer to explicitly tell the company not to share their data, which is usually in the form of a sack up site or a survey sent in the mail. These surveys are often thrown away by consumers, so they dont even realize that theyre large the companies a green light to sell and share their data. Theres a new movement starting to grow, whe... ...nstitution Policy Brief 29, February 1998.http//www.brook.edu/comm/policybriefs/pb029/pb29.htm17 Simon Davie,Europe to U.S. No privacy, no pile, Wired - Issue 6.05. May, 1998http//www.wired.com/wired/6.05/europe.html18 Swedish Personal Register Law, recent changeshttp//www.dsv.su.se/jpalme/society/personal-register-law.htmlrecentchanges19 Declan McCullagh, US Twitchy on EU Data Privacy, Wired News, October 16, 1998http//www.wired.com/ discussion/news/business/story/15671.htmlSuggested Online resourcesPrivacy International - http//www.privacyinternational.org/Internet Privacy - http//www.netatty.com/privacy/US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights (HIPAA) - http//www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/ electronic Privacy Information Center - http//www.epic.org/Privacy 2000 - http//www.privacy2000.org/

Companies, Ethics, and Privacy of Personal Information Essay -- Privac

IntroductionPersonal data is quickly becoming a goodness in todays high technology world. This information is used by banks, investment and brokerage companies, credit card merchants, government agencies (local, state and federal), and consumer product-based companies. or so people in all likelihood dont realize the amount of information thats shared between companies, or how often its done. Many companies sell and share customer data to help sell products and check out what new products they should produce. Other uses include gathering information about inventory levels to help better determine what types of products are bought at which store, when and how often. This can be used for inventory and production, to make sure that the store (or stores for chains, like Safeway and Longs Drugs) can collapse the products available when theyre needed.However, the same personal data is being compromised and eroding privacy. Companies have been getting bolder in their attempts to gather, share and sell data. The latest trend is outsourcing data to third party companies for data processing, which can be done at a lower cost. One of the main problems with this approach is that a lot of very sensitive data is being sent, which could be harmful in the wrong hands. Most companies require their customers to opt-out to prevent their data from being shared with a companys affiliates. This process requires the customer to explicitly tell the company not to share their data, which is usually in the form of a web site or a survey sent in the mail. These surveys are often thrown away by consumers, so they dont even realize that theyre giving the companies a green light to sell and share their data. Theres a new movement starting to grow, whe... ...nstitution Policy Brief 29, February 1998.http//www.brook.edu/comm/policybriefs/pb029/pb29.htm17 Simon Davie,atomic number 63 to U.S. No privacy, no trade, Wired - Issue 6.05. May, 1998http//www.wired.com/wired/6.05/europe.html18 Sw edish Personal Register Law, recent changeshttp//www.dsv.su.se/jpalme/society/personal-register-law.htmlrecentchanges19 Declan McCullagh, US Twitchy on EU data Privacy, Wired News, October 16, 1998http//www.wired.com/news/news/business/story/15671.htmlSuggested Online resourcesPrivacy International - http//www.privacyinternational.org/Internet Privacy - http//www.netatty.com/privacy/US Department of Health and gentle Services, Office for Civil Rights (HIPAA) - http//www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/ Electronic Privacy Information Center - http//www.epic.org/Privacy 2000 - http//www.privacy2000.org/

Pertaining to psychology Essay

An oblige in Psychology Today regarding the concepts of alcoholism as a constituenttic factor is analyzed and discussed with attributes to scientific facts and statistical claims. Written by the Psychology Today staff, the article Is It In The Genes? Driven to drinkDoes alcoholism run in the family?, begins by proclaiming that 60% of alcoholics have at least on alcoholic p arnt. Given this number, the question is then raised as to whether the disease is caused by untoward genes or lost dreams. Though claimed as a mystery, the article foreshadows an answer by stating that studies say both sides may be right.The article states that investigators have think that there are two types of alcoholics among men those with beginnings to alcohol abuse before the age of 25, and those whose disease progresses at after periods in life. Of these two types, those with the early beginnings are more inclined to have incidence of family related alcoholism, which suggests a genetic predisposition. Astonishingly, this particular group is stated to comprise 40% of the estimated million male alcoholics in the United States.Not surprising however, this group is most commonly associated with violent behavior. On the other end of the scale, the men who have shown to become alcoholic later in life show a commonality of less family involvement. Their abuse is attributed more to a sought relief from stress and/or anxiety.Given these results, and the calamity of genetic predispositions, many research studies have been conducted in an effort to single out a common chromosomal defect. Fingers have been pointed at a gene which affects the ability of brain cells to respond to dopamine, which is believed to be a reason that alcoholics abuse alcohol an unaware effort to boost dopamine levels. Other beliefs sway toward what is called a mean gene that impairs the proper actions of serotonin, a chemical stimulant in the brain.As these studies and the researchers who have concluded them debat e about the actual culprit, a new-fashioned opinion has been declared by Frederick K. Goodwin, M.D. who is the head of the National Institute of Mental Health. Per the article, Goodwin states that there may be more than one single gene regard with alcoholism, much the same as with diabetes. Goodwin also believes that future research may conclude a common genetic predisposition to a complete soldiery of addictions of any range. In sum, Goodwin believes there may be a common thread among all addicts, but that specific characteristics may perpetuate certain cases.Pertaining to psychology, this article is a fantastic way of raising the questions of psychological issues in addiction. It contradicts the actuality that alcoholism, or addiction altogether, is strictly a sect of the psyche which can be outmatch through psychological treatment. This article gives simple, yet concise examples and statistics which proclaim the chance of hereditary predispositions to alcohol addiction, thus ruling out a strong possibility of psychological defect.Though it could be argued that a psychological predisposition could be genetically evident, the concepts of hereditary factors appear to be more supportive of genetic organic law and not learned behavior, which is a common belief toward alcoholism in European societies.This article is very informative of the most recent approaches toward the diagnostics of alcoholism, and as to where the modern understandings of its illness are derived. In conclusive reaction, this particular article is educational to those who are both aware of the dynamics and characteristics of alcoholics and those completely ignorant of the issue. I am pleased with its content, directive, and overall conveyance of matter.BIBLIOGRAPHYThe PT Staff Psychology Today Is It In the Genes? Driven to drink Does alcoholism run in the family? Sussex Publishers, LLC 2006

Kite Runner Connections with Skrzynecki Essay

The Kite Runner is set in Afghanistan, about a young boy named Amir who feels that he must win the kite tourney in order to redeem himself to his father. Because his mother died while giving birth to Amir he feels somehow responsible for his mothers death. His servant is his stovepipe friend, Hassan, who runs the kite for him.Amir feels as though he is not acknowledged or accepted by his father, therefore not feeling a maven of be when Baba (father) shows his love toward Hassan. This motivates Amir to not do anything about Hassans rape which later leaves him with guilt. Those who do not belong may commit acts that ar not within their desire in order to belong.For example, after Hassan was raped Amir lied to his father saying that Hassan stole his watch and money from him cause them to be kicked out of their house as servants. Amirs thoughts were that once Hassan had left, Babas love would be pointed toward him only, hence giving him a deeper sense of belonging to his father. Ha ssan on the other hand felt as though he belonged to the Afghan home of Baba and Amir even as a servant as he is treated with the same respect as the members of the family.However being Hazaras, a minority ethnic group, Hassan would not have felt a sense of belonging on the macro scale for the reason that his rape was motivated due to the ethnic group he is from i.e. the minority in Afghanistan who are unceasingly discriminated against. After the Soviets invaded Afghanistan the country became a war-zone causing Amir and Baba to flee the country leaving all the memories and reminiscences in their country.Connections are shown with several of Skrzyneckis poems, for example, St Patricks College. In St Patricks College it is sentience that the poet has been at his school for eight years however he has still formed no sense of belonging. This connects with the relationship that Amir has with his father, Baba. Baba has raised Amir on his own for almost a decade however Amir feels as thou gh Baba does not love him causing him to feel an insignificant amount of belonging.

Factors Affecting the Successful Implementation of Ict

qFactors Affecting the Successful Implementation of ICT Projects in Government David Gichoya, Research School of In pass wateratics, Loughborough University, UK D. M. emailprotected ac. uk compendium A governance is a huge and complex organisation, whose operations and strategic focus could be greatly enhanced by the well focussed industriousness of education and Communication Technologies (ICT) to place upright improvements in productivity, management loadiveness and ultimately, the quality of services offered to citizens.While the benefits of ICT in government pile non be disputed, on that point argon several concerns or so its triumph as well as the strategies to be adopted in executing of ashess in various countries. In this stem, the characteristic challenges that maturation nations face, which make ICT writ of execution in government fail to succeed be identified and synthesised. The report presents topics of belles-lettres review of trip studies from both d eveloped and developing countries and preliminary studies grounded in the Kenya e-Government reality.The key factors atomic number 18 identified, synthesised and categorised under common broad categories. This results in a rich picture of ICT execution experience that helps to identify mathematical solutions. A descriptive manikin for categorising key factors in ICT implementation in government illustrated with references to the literature is proposed. The input variables atomic number 18 categorised into factors for supremacy (drivers and enablers), and factors for trial (barriers and inhibitors). The output variables argon categorized into organisational and scientific benefits. Finally, an action for triumph is proposed.This action includes suggestions for increasing the impact of factors for success while reducing the impact of factors for reverse and use of available near invest. Keywords Government informatics, ICT experiences implementation, e-Government, inst ruction system, ICT success and failure use to various phenomena (Beynon-Davies 2002). Following this definition of informatics, government informatics can be defined as the act of cultivation, information systems and information engine room inwardly government. This therefore includes application of eGovernment which is primarily to do with make the lecture of government services more fficient (Bannister, Remenyi 2005). 1. Background With the takings of information and communication technologies (ICTs), and eGovernment, it is possible to improve efficiency and effectiveness of internal administration within government and to re-locate government service from government offices to locations closer to the citizens. Examples of such(prenominal)(prenominal) locations argon cyber cafe, telecenters or a personal computer at home or office. While the benefits of ICT in government can non be disputed, there argon several concerns about its success as well as the strategies to be ad opted in implementation of systems in various ountries. This paper therefore presents the findings of a literature review, knowledge acquired from reviewed case studies from developing countries and a preliminary study grounded on Kenyan government. The paper considers the characteristic challenges that developing nations face, which make ICT implementation in government fail to succeed. A descriptive framework for categorising key factors in ICT implementation in government and an action for success be proposed. The action for success is presented as response to situation specific challenges. In support of government informatics, Tapscott (1995, p. v) argues that ICT causes a paradigm shift introducing the age of network intelligence, reinventing businesses, governments and individuals. Ndou (2004, p. 2) quoting Kaufman (1977) observes, the traditional bureaucratic paradigm, characterised by internal productive efficiency, functional rationality, departmentalisation, hierarchical control and rulebased management is being replaced by competitive, knowledge based requirements, such as flexibility, network organisation, upright piano/horizontal integration, innovative entrepreneurship, organisational learning, speed up in service delivery, and a guest driven trategy, which emphasise coordinated network building, external collaboration and customer services all of which are supported by ICT. Informatics is a bridging discipline that is fundamentally interested in the application of information, information technology and information systems within organisations. Informatics is therefore the study of information, information systems and information technology ISSN 1479-439X 1. 1 e-Governments world-classs According to Kaul and Odedra (1991) governments around the world have been engaged in the operation of implementing a wide 175 Academic Conferences Ltd Reference this paper asGichoya D (2005) Factors Affecting the Successful Implementation of ICT Projects in Government The Electronic journal of e-Government hoi polloi 3 Issue 4, pp 175-184, available online at www. ejeg. com Electronic Journal of e-Government Volume 3 Issue 4 2005 (175-184) range of (ICT) applications. Countries have been classified by the United Nations according to their Computer Industry expandment Potential (CIPD) as advanced or less developed Mgaya (1999). Advanced include, for example, the United States, Canada, West European countries and Japan less developed include for example Argentina, Brazil, India, Mexico, Kenya and Bulgaria.For all countries, use of ICTs for government reinvention is increasing not only in investment nevertheless overly in equipment casualty of visibility with a number of high-profile initiatives having been launched during the 1990s. According to Heeks and Davies (2000), this reinvention has taken place especially in the advanced countries. Western countries are convinced that the information society will result in economic and soci al benefits (Audenhove 2000). The author quoting Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, notes that information infrastructures are expected to stimulate economic growth, amplify productivity, reate jobs, and improve on the quality of life. Heeks (2002) observes that there is a big difference between ICT implementation and use between developed and developing countries. However, Westrup (2002) observes that similarities can alike be expected. These similarities include capital which are never sufficient, bureaucracy and user needs. The difference is how problems are addressed in unalike countries. It can be argued that, with their comely resources and advanced technology, the Western countries have an easier way of implementing ICT stands than DCs. Most developing countries are characterised by limited omputer applications in the public sector, inadequate infrastructure and shortage of happy manpower (Odedra 1993). Odedra (1993, p. 9) notes that this situation inhabits not merely due to lack of financial resources, but largely due to lack of coordination at different levels in making effective use of the technology. This uncoordinated efforts can only result in duplication if each department implements its own ICT projects without due regard to compatibility within the government. technical and support staff and facilities including buildings. So far, the Government info Technology Investment and Management Framework is onnecting all ministries to the Internet under the Executive meshwork (Limo 2003). The government is also connecting the ministries to run integrated information systems for example the Integrated Financial Management teaching System (IFMIS) and the Integrated Personnel and Pensions Database (IPPD). While developing countries may have similar characteristics, the Kenyan context presents various challenges that affect the successful implementation of ICT projects. Characteristics that define Kenyan ICT environment Most ICT projects are ab initio donor funded. slightly donations are made without precedent consultation or carrying out a needs nalysis by the recipient organization Operational/ hurry costs are met by the government. Funding (capital and human resource requirements) ends with the project phase. The budgets for ICT are inadequate but rising. A lack of ICT policies and master formulates to guide investment. To the finish that, with a number donors funding ICT, there have been multiple investments for the same product due to lack of coordination. A focus on ICT applications that support traditional administrative and functional transactions rather than on effective information sufficeing and distribution within and without government epartments Unstable ICT resources. This paper therefore helps to reception the following questions 1. What critical factors or variables can be identified as important in terms of their effect on ICT project implementation in government? 2. Are there common variables and can the variables be synthesised and categorised under common broad categories for specific action to be taken? 3. Does the resulting abridgment of the data lead to a framework that enables compendium and understanding of the ICT implementation experience in Kenya and can it help to identify problems and solutions? 4. Does this in turn result in a framework hat can be used to guide ICT 2. ICT Implementation in Government of Kenya Over the last five years, the Kenyan government has initiated some capital investment towards set up and installation of ICT infrastructure. Funding for these investments is achieved through partnerships between the government and development partners. The foreign funding factor constitutes the largest percentage of this investment in terms of technology. The government contribution is usually in the form of www. ejeg. com 176 Academic Conferences Ltd David Gichoya implementation in Kenya and other developing countries? 5. Does the resulting framework build on revious frameworks either in terms of its applicability to real life situations, its inclusive nature, its cohesiveness, and its ability to generate questions for further enquiry? The research strategy envisaged is close to one used by Doherty, King et al. (1998), since the objectives are partly confirmatory but primarily exploratory. The strategy involves use of in-depth interviews, observation and commercialismumentary review. This sexual climax provides new insights, grounded in the Kenya e-Government reality, into factors that contribute to the success or failure of ICT projects. It also shows the relationship between the doption of good practice during implementation and the resultant level of success attributed to the operational systems. The methodology envisaged therefore has two dimensions, one theoretically based on ICT literature and the other analytically based on case studies. This paper therefore includes knowledge acquired from a l iterature review and a preliminary investigation grounded in Kenya. focus. Planning projects Implementation of ICT A familiar maxim says, if you cannot plan it, you do not do it. Another maxim says, I never planned to fail, I just failed to plan. Planning spans a whole project period. It begins once the roject planning activities determine the organizations strategy and identifies the ICT projects. Within the framework of a some fixed constraints, project plans evolve with the lifecycle. The constraints are cadence and money so each project has a clear deadline and a tight budget. According to Moran (1998, p. 39), plans fall into one of the two categories vision without substance and a budget without vision. The identified problems of vision without substance are vagueness of future vision, lack of institutional vision, current position and time. Identified issues of budget without vision are questions as to what roblem is being solved, what are the priorities and definition of th e roles and responsibilities. With ICT projects being advocated for and financed by donors, budget without vision is likely to be the project plan. Maciaszek (2001, p. 10) has suggested some planning models and methods for ICT implementation. Further, Aineruhanga (2004) observes that planning as a tool can help in reducing waste by identifying the pre-re quites conditions for successful ICT implementation rather than rushing into a complex e-Government strategy without having world-class finalized a national ICT policy. Figure 1 presents a research framework onstructed from these preliminary studies. The framework specifies the area of research interest and shows how ICT implementation success affects ICT facilities quality and information system quality. In turn ICT facilities quality and information systems quality affect the perceived benefits. An ICT project implementation can only be perceived to have succeeded if the perceived benefits are realised. ICT facilities quality can be assessed after careful paygrade of the infrastructure to determine technical functionality. For example if the facilities were for networking different departments, the question may be hether this has been achieved successfully. This will involve a technical and user evaluation of the functional communication systems. Information system quality can only be determined by evaluating the information they generate. For example if the information is for budgeting purposes, the question might be whether the information system can generate finished and timely financial information. Three reasons are identified for poor project planning in organisations. These are risk management had not been addressed, business systems had not been justified to the full and lack of involvement from management Knott andDawson (1999). These can be taken as the major reasons but are not exhaustive. This is due to the mixed bag of the implementation environments. Also, as notable by Bannister and Remen yi (2000), p. 1), when it comes to complex decisions, managers often rely on methods which do not fall within the traditional boundaries of alleged(prenominal) rational decision making. It is observed that managers sometimes base decisions on acts of faith, gut instinct or blind faith (referred to as strategic insight). As noted by Harindranath (1993), though developing countries commit a sizable amount of economic resources to ICT, for hem to reap maximum benefits, ICT needs careful planning and coordination prior to implementation and use otherwise trial and error methods of implementation that characterise most government ICT applications will only succeed in the wastage of scarce resources comprehend benefits are the end products that can be used to judge the success of the whole system. If the perceived benefits like easier communication, networking, and system integration, timely, relevant, complete and useful information are not realised, then the system will be perceived to have failed. Attributes of each component are shown for clarity and www. ejeg. com nd 177 ISSN 1479-439X Electronic Journal of e-Government Volume 3 Issue 4 2005 (175-184) Figure 1 Research framework 1998, Heeks 2002, Mgaya 1999). However, a careful review of reasons for failure identifies other factors whose social movement or absence seizure determines success or failure of projects. To begin with, the researcher looks at the output variables which are the benefits to be achieved if the initiative succeeds. The purpose of this is to clarify the goal of ICT projects. These goals may form a key element to the planning process as described above. Achievement of these goals helps to determine how to classify ICT projects. In ddition, perceptions of, and reasons for ICT failure are reviewed and these helps to identify possible key variables. 3. ICT performance evaluation ICT evaluation can be defined as establishing by quantitative, and/or qualitative methods the value of the ICT to the organisation Khalifa et al. (2004). Performance cannot be judged as good or bad without the successful implementation of the project. In this paper, the technical or operational implementation of ICT infrastructure is of interest. Evaluating ICT projects can be quite problematic and can sometimes be quite subjective (Heeks 2002, Currie 1995, Bannister, Remenyi 2004, Irani 002, DeLone and McLean 2002, Bannister and Remenyi 2000) and there is no single ICT evaluation method that can be applied to all situations (Khalifa et al. 2004). Currie (1995) justifies this position using various case studies drawn from businesses in various developed countries while Heeks (2002) observes that evaluation is subjective and can depend on circumstances including time. Evaluation leads to the determination of success or failure of an ICT project. 4. 1 Output variables 4. ICT and IS success and failure Many benefits can be achieved using ICT in government. However, a word of caution given bySaul and Zulu (1994) is in order. The authors see ICT as a means to an end and not an end in itself. The value of ICT lies in its ability to assist the government in finding solutions to its problems. ICT expenditure can only be justified if there are benefits accruing to it and not adopting it for its own sake. publications shows that planning and management of ICT projects has a very poor record in developing countries (Galliers et al. 1998, Qureshi The benefits are listed below Cost reduction Quality of service delivery www. ejeg. com 178 Academic Conferences Ltd David Gichoya 5. Factors for ICT success and failureIncreasing capacity of government Improved decision making Transparency Improved efficiency Improved access to information Other technological benefits for example cheaper and efficient and access to large storage capacities within larger and more advanced computers While discussing factors for success and failure, it is necessary to clarify the opposite effect of m ost factors. This means if the posture of a factor encourages success, the lack of it encourages failure (examples are, proper infrastructure and well motivated staff). The converse is true such that if charge of a factor causes failure, its bsence will cause success (examples are bureaucracy, poor project and change management). 4. 2 Categorisation of ICT projects failure Broadly, the estimation of worth of an ICT punt focus on considerations of the success and failure of IS. The issue of ICT failure can be analyzed by assuming that learning from IS failures will provide us with important lessons for formulating successful strategies for the planning, development, implementation and management of information systems. While discussing dimensions of ICT failure, Beynon-Davies (2002, p. 201) considers both the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the informatics model.The horizontal dimension is expressed in terms of the difference between development failure and use failure. The vertical dimension is expressed in terms of failure at the level of ICT systems, IS projects, or organization, or at the level of the external environment. Six types of IS failure is identified as follows Technical failure Project failure Organizational failure Environmental failure Developmental failure Use failure Beynon-Davies supports the argument with several case studies and quotes other models for IS failure put forward by Lyytinen & Hirschheim (1987). 5. 1 Factors for successFactors for success are those occurrences whose presence or absence determines the success of an ICT project. They can be drivers or enablers as described by (Moran 1998, Riley 2000, Doherty et al. 1998, Heeks 2003b, Mugonyi 2003, Heeks 2004, Khaled 2003). . Their absence can cause failure and their presence can cause success. Drivers are the factors that encourage or reinforce the successful implementation of ICT projects. Some of these are listed below Vision and strategy Government support E xternal pressure and donor support Rising consumer expectations Technological change, modernization, and world(a)izationEnablers are the active elements present in society, which help overcome the potential barriers. Some of these are listed below Effective project, coordination and change management Good practice 5. 2 Factors for failure The factors for failure are those occurrences that constraint proper/smooth implementation of ICT projects in government. These can either be barriers or inhibitors as described by (Khaled 2003, Gakunu 2004, Aineruhanga 2004, Heeks 2003a, Ndou 2004, Bhatnagar 2003, Saul and Zulu 1994). ICT success or failure in developing countries can be categorized into three depending on the decimal point of success (Heeks 2002).First, is the total failure of an initiative never implemented or in which a new system was implemented but immediately abandoned. Second is partial failure of an initiative, in which major goals are unattained or in which there are significant unwanted outcomes. Associated with partial failure is the sustainability failure where an initiative first succeeds but is then abandoned after a year or so. The last is success of an initiative where most stakeholders attain their major goals and do not experience undesirable outcomes. For the purpose of this paper, Heeks categorisation is more relevant since it can be sed to categorise the few projects implemented by the Kenyan government using the above criterion as the case may be. www. ejeg. com Barriers can be considered as those occurrences that hinder ICT implementation. Some of these factors for failure are listed below. Infrastructure Finance Poor data systems and lack of compatibility Skilled personnel Leadership styles, culture, and bureaucracy Attitudes 179 ISSN 1479-439X Electronic Journal of e-Government Volume 3 Issue 4 2005 (175-184) Inhibitors do not necessarily prevent the implementation of ICT projects but they do prevent advancement and restri ct successful mplementation and sustainability. Some of these factors for failure are listed below. User needs Technology Cordination ICT policy Transfer of ICT idolisers Donor push far as they help in shaping the process of identifying the areas of weaknesses in ICT implementation in government. In this paper, functionality is considered to depend on ICT systems and usability and utility are crucial in determining stakeholder satisfaction, which increases stakeholder acceptance, and reduces resistance to word meaning. 7. Action plan for success The shell way to achieve maximum benefit for ICT implementation is to have all the factors for uccess with no occurrence of the factors for failure. However, in real world that is not the case. attached such a situation, an action to increase the chances of success is required. Clockwork (2004) suggests the following framework for implementing e-Government projects. 6. Previous models for ICT project success Several models for asses sing success, failure and the way forward for ICT systems in familiar DeLone and McLean (2002) and developing countries Heeks (2002) have been suggested. These and other models are considered relevant to this paper. The model proposed by DeLone and McLean (1992, p. 87) was later overlaid on a impler scheme of functionality, usability and utility by Beynon-Davies (2002). This overlaid model introduces the report of functionality and usability, which are considered relevant to ICT implementation. Beynon-Davies argues that, the worth of an IS will be determined in the three contexts of functionality, usability and utility. The framework consists of five stages Examine national e-Readiness Identify and prioritize themes Develop a program of action Apply to topical anaestheticize groups Implement solutions the final stage of the framework, is to implement the solutions. A key factor in this implementation is to hold back that the rganization is ready and in place to realize th e new activities and corresponding changes. Some ICT best practices that have been harvested from a review of successful applications are suggested by Clockwork. Given their simple situation, developing countries are in a position to make effective and speedy use of such best practices for their own purposes. This can be viewed from an angle of technology leapfrog which can be achieved through appropriate technology transfer (Ifinedo 2005). DeLone and McLean (2002, p. 2) acknowledged the difficulty in defining information system success and noted that different researchers ddress different aspects of success, making comparisons difficult and the prospect of building a cumulative tradition for I/S research in addition elusive. The ITPOSMO model seeks to explain the high rates of failures of information systems in developing countries Heeks (2002). This model assumes the designers of IS are remote which means their contextual inscriptions are liable to be significantly different from user actuality. It assumes the designers come from developed countries or have been trained in developed countries and their knowledge of the local circumstances is at segmentation with the local reality.This model can be used in explaining some of the reasons as to why implementation of ICT in Kenyan government fails. However, the interest of the paper is on the whole of the ICT implementation which views IS as a passenger. The suggested best practices in ICT are 1. Do not underestimate the complex environment in which ICT programs evolve. ICT projects are too often believed to have a technology focus. 2. Be sure to select a project that is expected to demonstrate the greatest benefit for your target group. 3. Government staff should be re-skilled to anticipate the changes that accompany an ICT structure and new roles 4.Identify the right technologies. 5. Make a decision on how an organizational process fits your technology. 6. muscular program and project management is essentia l to develop and implement successful ICT solutions. The first two models learn with ICT/IS in general but Heeks model is for ICT/IS implementation in government and especially in developing countries. All these models act as useful guides in highlighting some of the key variables that affect ICT success. They are considered in this paper as www. ejeg. com 180 Academic Conferences Ltd David Gichoya 7. Do not underestimate the total cost of ownership (TCO) of an ICT project.The above best practices might not be sufficient but they can act as a primer coat for further research. In this paper, the best practices have been analyzed but their adoption in Kenya is not clear at this early stage of e-Government implementation. prophylactic against failure and should be adopted more widely. 7. 3 Local improvisations According to Heeks (2002), local improvisation is done to reduce actuality-reality gaps. This can be through hybrids that recognize local capacities and improve success rates. However, Heeks notes that schemes to develop these hybrids in the DCs are virtually nonexistent thus hampering improvisation.Participative approaches to implementation e. g. group working and end-user involvement have to be carefully considered since most have been developed for the industrialized countries. Examples of how these participative IS techniques were a failure, are the case of Mexicos General Hospital and an enduser development initiative for health IS in South Africa (Heeks 2002). The implementations failed because of the large gap between design assumptions and requirements and actuality of organizations into which ICT was introduced. The conclusion drawn is that these implementations failed because there was too large a gap between he design assumptions and requirements of those techniques and the actuality of organizations into which they were introduced and not necessarily because of participative design is necessarily wrong. 7. 1 Conducting e-Readiness assessment I n this paper, e-Readiness refers to the government ability to take advantage of the ICTs as a facility to enhance and improve its administrative functions. e-Readiness has several components, including telecommunications infrastructure, human resources, and legal and policy framework. e-Readiness assessment suggested above can be conducted on Data systems infrastructure Legal infrastructure Institutional infrastructure (standardization of various departmental means of communication and the technology that is used) kind-hearted infrastructure Technological infrastructure Leadership and strategic thinking readiness (short, medium and long term plans by specific government ministries) In this regard, e-Readiness assessment can be used as an information-gathering mechanism for governments as they plan their strategies for ICT implementation. It can help the project team to better understand what impediments to ICT implementation exist and what initiatives are needed to overcome th em. . A descriptive conceptual framework for developing countries context A framework for mapping the knowledge gained from both the literature and the case studies is given in figure 3. The framework gives a pictorial representation of a conceptual format of the literature for representational purpose. scuttlebutt variables are all those factors considered as inputs to an ICT project. Some of these factors though necessary might be absent and are considered to be factors for failure. Other factors are present but their presence becomes obstacles to success. These are categorised as factors for failure. 7. 2 Design divisibilityDivisibility of local design can decrease chances of failure as explained by Heeks using the Volta River Authority (Ghana) as an example (Heeks 2002, p. 109). Divisibility is achieved by modularity (supporting one business function at a time by allowing separation of, for example, accounting and personnel functions), incrementalism (providing stepped levels o f support for business functions by allowing separation of, for example, clerical and management support). In Kenya this has been achieved to some extent. Both the personnel and accounting functions are computerised with varying degrees of success within the ministries.This has been done through the implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and the Integrated Personnel and Pensions Database IPPD). Heeks (2002) observes that design divisibility is therefore a www. ejeg. com The input variables that act as the foundation of the ICT project and are considered as main ingredients to ensure the success of the project are referred to as drivers or prerequisites while those variables that encourage success are referred to as enablers or essentials. As ICT projects are implemented, it is necessary to map the input variables to assess where action should e taken. Output variables are represented as either organisational or technological benefits. The 181 IS SN 1479-439X Electronic Journal of e-Government Volume 3 Issue 4 2005 (175-184) organisational benefits are the benefits that accrue to the organisation. Technological benefits may not necessarily accrue to the organisation but are regarded as benefits resulting from implementation of the technology. These benefits can be enjoyed by individuals, the organisation and the public. situation specific action. Input and output variables are considered as far as they affect the success and failure of ICT implementation.The framework takes cognisance of broad premises (benefits, challenges and impact) of the Kenyan perspectives discussed in this paper and those observed by (Avgerou and Walsham 2000, Berleur and Drumm 2003, Heeks 2002) for both research and action. lastly the framework shows the response which is presented as action for success. The response proposed has three characteristics. First, it analyses the situation, second, it looks at the various factors contributing to success a nd/or failure and finally an action for success to a In the response, action is taken to increase the chances of project success by reducing the mpact of the factors for failure and increasing the strength of the factors for success. Drivers (Prerequis ites) Factor for s uccess Input variables 1. Fina nce 2. Infrastruc ture 3. Attitudes 4. Coordination 5. Strategy 6. Skills 7. O thers E nablers (Essentia ls ) Action plan for s ucce ss 1. Conduct an e-readiness assess ment 2. Strategy and Policy a decla ratio n b y the government stating goals and objectives by appointing a board for co-coordinating ICT impleme ntation 3. Local improvisation inc lud ing design divisibility 4. Encourage public-private partne rs hip to create sustainable ICT programs 5. O thersResponse O utput varia ble s 1. Organis ational be ne fits Improved efficienc y Improved access to information Tra nsparency 2. Te chnological be ne fits Cheaper and efficie nt communication Large stora ge Real time proce ss ing Barriers Facto rs for Failure Inhibitors Figure 3 Descriptive framework or region within which their work is located (Avgerou and Walsham 2000). As the literature reviewed suggests, developing countries are inactive far behind in implementing e-Government and it is hoped that successful implementation of ICT projects will act as a strong foundation for eGovernment initiatives. 9. ConclusionTo fulfil the development needs of ICT projects, those pertain in the design, implementation and management of IT-related projects and systems in the developing countries must improve their capacity to address the specific contextual characteristics of the organisation, sector, country www. ejeg. com 182 Academic Conferences Ltd David Gichoya cooperation from development partners on ICT projects To produce guidelines that the governments can use to help define their needs and agendas with regard to government ICT implementation and use Provide a basis for assessing good practice for ICT implementation in government Contribute to the body of knowledge on ICT implementation According to Doherty et al (1998), the factors that influence the ultimate level of success or failure of informatics projects have received considerable attention in the academic literature. Doherty et al (1998, p. 3) summarised studies on success factors and current research objectives involving empirical studies. emerging papers will include the findings of cases studies done in 9 ministries of the Kenyan government. Therefore, this further research will identify and categorise the factors influencing ICT implementation according to their degree of influence in Kenya and suggest ossible actions. In this paper, the factors affecting ICT implementation have been categorised into factors for success and factors for failure. These have been further categorized as either drivers, enablers, barriers or inhibitors. The paper does not classify the factors in terms of their influence. However, vision and strategy and government support are considered important for success while lack of funds and poor infrastructure are considered as major factors for failure. As many arguments for ICT planning prove, ICT project implementation is a complex exercise and more research is needed to identify challenges, ood practice and solutions for successful implementation. This paper analyses and syntheses both all information gathered to develop a framework that hopefully can be used during ICT infrastructural planning and implementation in developing countries. The response framework discussed in this paper is expected to be used to Provide a basis on which to analyze and specify international support and References Aineruhanga, M. , 2004. Focus on the Kenya ICT Week. Chakula word of honorletter, (9),. Audenhove, L. V. , 2000. Information and communication technology policy in Africa A critical analysis of rhetoric and practice.In C. AVGEROU and G. WALSHAM, eds, Burlington, ground forces As hgate Publishing company, pp. 277-290. Avgerou, C. and Walsham, G. , 2000. Introduction IT in developing countries. In C. AVGEROU and G. 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Information systems research, 3(1), pp. 87-95. Doherty, N. F. , King, M. and Marples, C. G. , 1998. Factors Affecting the Success of Hospital Information Support Systems. Loughborough Loughborough University Business School. Gakunu, P. , 2004-last update, E-Government Strategy for Kenya.Available http//www. apc. org/apps/img_upload/6972616672696361646f63756d656e74/egov_Presentation_for_ICT_Conven 10. 5,2005. Galliers, D. R. , Madon, S. and Rashid, R. , 1998. Information Systems and glossiness Applying the stages of growth concepts to development administration. Information technology for Development, 8(2), pp. 89-100. www. ejeg. com 183 ISSN 1479-439X Electronic Journal of e-Government Volume 3 Issue 4 2005 (175-184) Harindranath, G. , 1993. Information Technology Policies and Applications in the Commonwealth Developing Countries An introduction. In G. Harindrabath and J.Liebenau, eds, Information technology policies and applications in the commonwealth developing countries. 1 edn. London Commonwealth secretariat, pp. 1-5. Heeks, R. , 2004-last update, edifice Transparency, Fighting Corruption with ICTs Homepage of iconnect online, Online. Available http//www. iconnect-online. org/base/ic_show_news? sc=118&id=2363 20. 04. 2004. Heeks, R. , 2003a-last update, Building E-governance for Development A framework for national and donor action Homepage of Institute for development policy and management, Online. Available http//idpm. man. ac. uk/publications/wp/igov/igov_wp12. df 18. 02. 2004. Heeks, R. , 2003b-last update, Causes of E-Government Success and Failure Homepage of IDPM, University of Manchester, Online. Available http//www. e-devexchange. org/eGov/causefactor. htm 24. 08. 2004. Heeks, R. , 2002. Information Systems and Developing countries Failure, success, and local improvisations. http//www. fes. uwaterloo. ca/crs/plan674d/isysanddcountr ies. pdf edn. Philadelphia Taylor & Francis. Heeks, R. and Davies, A. , 2000. 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Different Techniques For Providing Fresh Water To Arid Regions Of The World

IntroductionThe problem of water supply every year is becoming increasingly important, forcing scholars and political scientists talk roughly the inevitability of future conflicts over ownership of this strategic resource. Indeed, the population in the meat East and Africa is growing at a rapid pace, and the sources of the water rough as quickly exhausted. Arid mode, uncontrolled population growth and other factors make water a truly transp arnt gold XXI century. Stocks planetary oceanic and continental waters are 1.5 one million million cubic kilometers they are extremely high salt content and are not suitable for alcoholism. The parcel of fresh water in the mans total water is 2.53% or 31-35 million cubic kilometers. But those waters enclosed by the glaciers, which are in the comprise of air and soil moisture in the underground seas, are not available for development.Thus, humankind has conditionally 0.3% or 93.0 thousand cubic kilometers fresh water, which could be use d for industrial and economic goals. (USGS, 2011) According to figures published in August 2004 in a joint report by the World Health system and UNICEF more than one billion people still use unsafe sources of drinking water. Those well-nigh at risk are developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa area. African Bank experts estimate that for a radical reformment of rural water supply for the people of Africa to 2015 need to find at least(prenominal) $ 10 billion. In this case, 80 percent of Africans testament be able to enjoy fair water, while continuing to be as massive investment funds in 2025 to normal water around the b escape continent.As pointed out by the International Water Management Institute, to solve the problem of water, it is needed to take imperative measures. In particular, to build reservoirs, use the rainwater harvesting, etc. The most acute problem of water deficit is for Africa and Asia as an arid regions and the purpose of this essay to raise a nd compare two possible way of solution such as desalination and recycling.BackgroundGlobally, water consumption over the past 100 years has increase by six times and will double again by 2050. Some countries fall in already run out of water and cannot produce food. The event will be even more widespread water shortages and soaring prices for this resource , said the director of the International Water Management Institute frump Rijsberman. (APECWater, 2011)Population(FAO Water, 2012)In the twentieth century the worlds population has tripled. During this period, the consumption of fresh water has increased in 7 times, including at the municipal water needs in13 times. With this rise in consumption become the lack of water resources in many regions of the world. According to the World Health Organization, more than two billion people in the world today suffer from a shortage of drinking water. In the next 20 years, given the current trends of population growth and the world econo my is evaluate to increase demand for fresh water for at least 100 cubic kilometers per year.Water sources(IMSD, 2012)The 97% of water in our planet is saline water, the other 3% is fresh water. The surface water resource consists of ground water (30.1%), icecaps and glaciers (68.7%), and others (0.9%), such as water vapor and clouds. The biggest part of water that is used is found in lakes (87%), swamps (11%) and rivers (2%). Unfortunately, water problem in Asia and Africa are closely related to another equally important problem as food. Arab countries annually spend $ 50 billion just for agricultural irrigation. As the Minister of Egypt Water Resources Mahmud Abu Zeid said by 2025 90% of the Arab countries would fall below the poverty of water resources. To prevent this, need for a unified Arab strategy of water use. (5th World Water Forum Secretariat, 2009)Options of solutionsIn the oil-rich Arab countries went through the right, but expensive, deciding to allocate billions of d ollars annually for the desalination of sea water. By some estimates, the Arabian countrys now use about 70% of desalinate water.( NRC, 2010) However, the governments of most countries in Asia and Africa, such costs obviously can afford. Another way to observe water is recycling. For example, for many years in Singapore does not throw waste water into rivers and the sea. All dirty water is recycled and cleared. Singaporeans are not only when purifying sewage water. They desalinate sea waterand collect rainwater.desalinationThe UN agencies, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the National Organization of more than 15 countries are booked in desalination of ocean and sea water. This allows the most efficient way to absorb the wealth of the ocean water. Desalination of salt water is perspective because a large numbers of arid areas adjacent to ocean coast, or are close to it. Thus, ocean and sea water are raw materials for industrial use. right away exist about 30 ways to of de salination of sea water. All methods of turning salt water into fresh water require more energy.In general, the cover of electricity accounts for about half of the cost of desalination, the other half goes to the maintenance and depreciation of equipment. So, the cost of desalinated water depends mainly on the cost of electricity. (FWR, 2011) However, where is a lack of fresh water and exist the conditions for the desalination the cost factor recedes into the background. In some areas desalination is environmentally advantageous than bringing water from far away. Desalination of salt water is developing quite rapidly. As a result, every two or three years, the total capacity of installations doubled.RecyclingCleaning and recycling of industrial water is a key point in the cycle of water supply and sanitation. Standard cleaning contaminated industrial water will significantly improve the quality of water before re-use and avoid inappropriate use of potable water and a costly drain c ollection system in municipal wastewater. (Anglogold Ashanti, 2010) A problem that can be found this denial by people using of purified sewage water as the main source, but in the world there are countries which do not enjoy much of a choice.The only salvation for those countries is recycling water plants. In the case of the mending on the coast, desalination is the option but if the sea is far and the country cannot afford the costs of desalination the recycling sewage plants is the good choice. Water passes membrane cleaning and disinfected with ultraviolet light it is sufficient for industrial use. That portion of the water that goes into the water, further purified and mixed with water reserves in reservoirs, which are filtered and supplied to the taps.For instance, in Egypt they have Nile River and use its water but dirty water isdrained from the waste back into the Nile. (Ecopreneur, 2011) This kind of water cannot substitute drinking water but will significantly reduce the cost of transportation of drinking water and provide an opportunity for the use of recycled water in industry and agriculture for arid regions.ConclusionNowadays Asia, the Middle East and the most part of Africa has unstable supply of fresh water. Over the past forty years, the number of fresh water at the rate per soul decreased by almost 60%. The main consumer of water is agriculture. Nowadays this sector accounts for over 85% of all available fresh water. Needs are increasing and the amount of water decreases. Today, almost 2 billion of people in more than 80 countries have a limited supply of drinking water. By 2025 nearly 50 countries with a total population of 3 billion people will face water shortages. (World Bank, 2007)Even with the abundance of rain that locomote in China, a country half the population is not provided properly with drinking water in the regular mode. In such an acute shortage of fresh water is becoming especially popular desalination and water recycling a s an alternative way to recharge. For the health and tone, people need clean and fresh water. Crude raw water is the cause of many human diseases, so people should not drink it. Water treatment is one of the most promising solutions to meet the needs of the population in the drinking water because groundwater resources are reduced, and rivers and lakes are on the verge of its existence.The ability of countries to solve problems related to climate change, and the issue of water, in particular, like many in the Middle East, is directly dependent on the will and determination of the political leadership of the region. (STS, 2012) Once, the King ibn Talal Hussein of Jordan argued that the only question that Jordan would plunge into a war is water. The same opinion is shared by the former UN General Secretary, Boutros Ghali, the Egyptian, stated that the next war in the Middle East will be over water.

America as a Land of Prosperity in the 1920’s

America as a Land of Prosperity in the 1920s is the story of Americans who searched for equality. Yes, for almost individuals America was a land of prosperity in the 1920s. The First World War sparked Americas rise in prosperity. As no fighting took place on American soil there were virtually no reparations to be salaried, also America had entered the war late and therefore, had not spent nearly as overmuch money as the big European countries such as France, Britain, and Germany. This left America in a very prosperous position.Another key power to Americas rise in prosperity was a man named Henry Ford. Henry Ford was a car producer who thought of the mass production system. This method used assembly line techniques, whereby each stage of the car production was carried out by a different team of workers who specialized souly in their particular proposition area. This had a huge tinge The method was introduced in 1913 and by 1929 26 million cars were registered in the U. S. A com pared to only 9 million in 1920. That is an join on of nearly 300% in just 9 yearsHowever, the benefits of the ford company stretched beyond just the automobile manufacturing during the 1920s, people also started pitiable into the cities from the rural areas. In 1920 to a greater extent(prenominal) than 50% of people lived in the cities which were an increase of more than 50%. Another reason for the rise in prosperity was the first appearance of hire-purchase, whereby you put a deposit down on an item that you wanted, and paid installments on that item with interest, so you would pay back more than the price for the item. highschool purchases were easy to get and people got into debt without any real planning for the future. In the 1920s it just seemed to be the case, that if you wanted something, then you got it, this had a major economic impact somebody had to make what was bought. This was the era before robot technology and work done by laborers. The person who made that pr oduct would get paid and he would not save all of the money. He, too, would spend some of it, and someone else would have to make more items, so he would get paid and so the beat continued. By the mid-1920s America was booming.Sales of items, which were once, were considered a luxury such as radios, cars, and other new-on-the market items had rocketed, as had both the average and the minimum wage. The average one-year wage for that decade was $1236. 00, a huge increase. Perhaps the fact that highlights most Americas rise in prosperity is between 1919 and 1929 Americas GNP rose from 72. 4 jillion (1919) to 104 billion (1929) which is around a 75% increase. The boom also led to record low unemployment aims. This was due to the growth of many other businesses and the demand for more workers.The 1920s also saw the construction of towering skyscraper such as the Chrysler building for the first time. However, not all businesses and cultures shared in this prosperity. The farming indus try was hit hard, particularly in the south, as some northern farmers found prosperity due to the increase in the demand for fresh fruit as more people could afford, no thanks to the rise in wages. The farmers earned very little money as a result, lived a very scummy lifestyle with poor housing no fresh water and some blush go about eviction from their homes.The farmers did not share in the prosperity in the first place because of the loss of the foreign markets. (The Fordney-Mcumber tariff act, put tariffs on imported goods at an all time high causing foreign countries to apply the same tariffs to America) galore(postnominal) blacks did not share in the prosperity either. They were discriminated by the White Americans who claimed they were polluting their country. As a result of this, many black people living in slums or ghettos as they were named. In 1926 a survey found that there were over 200,000 unemployed black people in the south alone.America even had its own low-grade facilities for black people and white people to use. For example, white and colored drinking taps with the white drinking tap being of the higher(prenominal) standard. These laws were referred to as Jim Crow laws. But through all the intolerance some black people did do well and did prosper. Black musicians, poets, and politicians emerged. One of the most famed politicians of his time was Marcus Garvey. Garvey was the founder member of the UNIA (Universal Negro Improvement Association), which encouraged black people. Garvey eventually got deported back to Jamaica for Tax fraud.Other Immigrants such as Mexicans and Italians also suffered as well hard times. Millions of immigrants were allowed into America in the 1900s, where free land and job opportunity became available, but towards the end of the 1920s this was not so much the case. America was letting more and more immigrants in and it had to stop. They devised a literacy test to bring the numbers down. But problems existed with the immigrants that were already in the country. The number of job opportunities had fallen and the majority of migrants were competing for the lowest paid jobs. This often led to racial tension within the ethnic groups.So to sum things up, in general America was a land of prosperity, but withstand you shared in this prosperity or not depended largely on your ethnic background and location in the country you lived. Were still faced with a matter of equality today People with diverse ethnic backgrounds still are not privilege to being treating equal. They continue to find a way to prevail in America regardless of the laws that government themselves make available only for those who seek a higher power or level of authority. Therefore, the question still remain, is America as a Land of Prosperity?

Complex Project Management: Historical Background, Problems and Approaches Essay

Managing a project that has cross-ethnical group members is a very involving task, which calls for application of appropriate lead styles and approaches (Arbaugh, 2007, p. 569). The applicability of theories, models and approaches of watchfulness in the Belbin Consultancy shed can be deeply elaborated with clarity, to demonstrate the understanding of the topic. Since managing and leading cross-cultural group ups in such projects does not just happen, as the monitor and shaper, I well-roundedly applied the needed aspects of attractions and management as I deemed appropriate. Below is a presentation of the score of Belbin Consultancy Project that my team and I, as the monitor and shaper, undertook.Project management Project management is a comprehensive undertaking by project managers which involves several go from inception to completion, and which guarantees the success of the project (Klimenko, 2014, p. 13). As I experienced during the Belbin Project execution, these a ctivities have to be cargonfully organized and precisely seened for execution.Project Processes During the management of the project, I applied 5 fundamental processes as shown in the appendix 1. The head start process was initiation, which relate determining the nature and range of the project (Daft & Lane, 2005, p. 337). all told the requirements ranging from analysis, goal setting, current operations review and feasibility were considered at this stage. The second process that we carried out was planning which involved the setting of appropriate eon for distributively activity, considering the costs involved and the resources required. We also did a risk planning activity that was geared towards tackling uncertainties.The third process was executing, which involved side by side(p) all the activities of the project as outlined during the planning stage. This was geared towards showdown all the set deadlines of the set milest mavens. The fourth process involved monitorin g the progress and controlling the execution, noting of any deviations from the plan and taking the appropriate managerial actions (Stewart and Powell, 2004, p. 37). At this stage, I verified and validated the activities and their execution as per the allocated resources and timelines. It is at this stage that the quality of the activities that different team members were involved in was considered. The last process of the project involved the closing out of the project after its completion (Xie and Zhang, 2013, p. 725). The final product that the team developed was original having delivered to the best of our ability.Management Approaches For effective execution of the processes menti 1d above, I applied several management approaches. These approaches assisted in carrying out the processes in a planned manner, towards realizing the requirements. The first approach I utilized was the traditional method, which involved the execution of all the processes in a sequence. In this app roach, some processes were recursively extended to support the cycle of exploitation of the project (Collyer & Warren, 2009 p. 359).The second approach was event chain approach, which involved the identification and management of proceedings and the chains of proceedings attached to the project schedule. This approach helped me in managing the negative effects, and allowed for modeling of uncertainties that were foreseeable as was outlined in the project schedule (Symonds, 2014, p. 2). The third approach was scrum methodology, whose goal was to improve the productivity of the team by removing every possible hurdle. The fourth methodology was crystal approach in which I directed the team a agency from focusing on the processes. It was thus crucial to focus more on the skills of the team members, interactions, communication and people. This way, every member was able to deliver in their allocated part.Organizing and Structuring groupwork At this stage, the central focus is eff rontery on the capabilities of team members. As defined by Scarnati (2001. P. 5), teamwork is a cooperative procedure that assists normal people to accomplish surprising results. It, therefore, called for effective allocation of tasks on individual members. We generated a commitment oath of the team and developed shared goals. The team foc workoutd on providing quality results as opposed to achieving individual own(prenominal) satisfaction that might have interfered with the achievement of objectives. Similarly, I facilitated and nurtured positive relationships that were cooperative as a way of motivating the team members towards achieving the final goal.The issues of interdependence among the team members were put into consideration (Schneider & Barsoux, 2003, p. 137). The creation of a positive attitude in the members through inspiring examples was thus vital. When experiencing difficulties, team members were enthusiastic to help out their peers, heedless of their backgrounds (S ymonds, 2014, p. 2). Whenever deviations resulted from the unwillingness of some members to ask for assistance, a quick meeting was convened to remind them of their interdependence responsibilities.During the allocation of tasks, interpersonal skills were put in consideration a amount that allowed for proper allocation of tasks. I encouraged open communication as well as positive feedbacks as a way of improving relationships among team members. This way, the team had an understanding that discussing problems was healthy for their interdependence. Similarly, as an overall manager, I worked sticky to ensure that the teams had the appropriate composition, by carefully considering the skills of each member and the kind of personality that each possessed. later on careful consideration, the team members were allocated tasks that matched their profile. On the same note, commitment to the processes of the team and accountability were highly emphasized. Respect for every member was exce edingly regarded and specially on the response towards several individuals who took lead types (Wateridge, 2001, p. 191). To ensure effective and efficient implementation of the project activities, electronic tools were highly utilized and whenever the tools were not enough for use on a particular task, the available tools were shared. This highly facilitated the process of implementation of the project activities.Project Execution During the project execution, my vital role was to control the process. At this point, practicing MBWA (management by walking around) was necessary. There were some instances where the project activities carried out by the team members veered from the plan. These deviations resulted from the inability of some members to fully comprehend what is expected of them during certain activities. This was so because of the diversified back grounds of the team members, which prevented them from consulting or asking for assistance. It was thus necessary for me to carry out the proper monitoring role, to match the activities with the plan and to undertake quality. To do this, I convened several emergence meetings to remind the team members on their roles as team players.During the completion stage when the project was nearing the close out phase, one of the team members got seek and had to fly back home. Because of the limitation of time, the tasks were allocated to some members of the team. It was unfortunate because the delivery time of the added tasks was late for the reason of failure to understand the tasks. This made it necessary for convening an abrupt meeting to brief the affected members on what is expected of them. For this reason, the delivery of the tasks allocated to the ailing member did not go in accordance with the plan.Team Working and LeadershipCross-cultural Teams During the initiation stage, the team rules as shown in appendix 2, as well as the roles of every member were developed. To facilitate this, discussions o n the cultural dissimilarities that were easily perceivable and their effects on behavior of the members and performance were established. This was geared towards creating an open discussion that inspired mutual trust and obligation (Chung et al., 2013 p. 194). After the discussion, the cultural differences that emanated from understanding the background of every team member helped in developing appropriate ways of addressing the issues accordingly. This was done after knowing where these differences emanated from through assessing the circumstance from individual members perspective. This helped in changing the stereo-typed perceptions and improvement on value-based assumptions.To solve some of the cross-cultural issues that arose during implementation of the setout activities, I as the leader worked hard for reconciliation as opposed to compromising. I thus created new ways of perceiving and settling the differences. This encouraged the combining of strengths among the team membe rs as opposed to picking disagreements. intensive communications, feedbacks and procedures were highly regarded to minimize the risks involved.Changing Roles The aspect of changing roles was not utilized so as to facilitate the aspect of specialization in tasks. This worked to our disadvantage when one of the team members go sick and had to fly back home. The tasks were allocated to several team members who had al just about similar tasks. Because of inadequacy of specialization on the added tasks, the members delivered the tasks late. This prompted me to convene an impromptu meeting to brief the members on their new added tasks. Because of this reason, the delivery of the tasks was out of time plan.Motivation To motivate the team members, the contributions made by each were highly regarded every time a scheduled meeting was convened as shown in appendix 3. Similarly, the diverse views of different individuals were encouraged and incorporated in the decisions made after a comp rehensive discussion (Wateridge, 2001, p. 161). To motivate the team members, I kept reminding them of their capabilities and how appreciated their contributions were. Also, different needs of individual members were identified for easy fulfillment. When members felt that their needs are catered for and their views are incorporated in making decisions pertaining to the execution of the project activities, they delivered to their capability (Wright, 2002, p. 121).To encourage harmony within the team, I encouraged communication among the members (Malinowski, 2011, p. 234). This served as a way of understanding the problems that different members are experiencing at particular instances. After the communication of the problems, the issues were addressed accordingly to the satisfaction of all members. This guaranteed harmony among the members through uncaring and open interactions, characterized by free flow of thoughts (Seteroff, 2003, p. 43). This free flow of thoughts and effective communication facilitated generation of new ideas pertaining to the implementation of activities of the project (Marc & Picard, 2000, p. 38). To get most out of the team members, the same technique of free flow of information and welcoming the contribution of every team member was utilized.Leadership Roles and Styles During the implementation of the project, several individuals took up the role of leadership. The members who became leaders were chosen by the majority of the team members. The act of leading further boosted the confidence of the chosen members towards obtaining the set goals (Pearce & Sims, 2000, p. 131). I had been previously chosen as the overall manager of the project from the start to the end, to oversee the implementation of activities. This was a good experience that educated me on how cross-cultural teams operate .In the process, different leadership styles as discussed below were utilized.Transactional Leadership The first type of leadership that differ ent members who took leadership roles utilized was transactional leadership (Lowe & Gardner, 2011, p. 460). This style operated on the basic ground that because the team members agreed on the leadership of a particular member, they must obey the directions he or she gives. This type of leadership led to clarification of the roles played by every member of the team. Similarly, the members were expected to follow the agreed upon rules failure to which one would be ejected out of the team.Transformational Leadership In this leadership, the leader inspired and motivated team members to transform the issue at hand from worst to best (Sashhin, 2004, p. 171). The means of motivation are as discussed above with encouraging individual members on their capabilities, free flow of information and effective communication at the top of the list (Ashkanasy & Tse, 2000, p. 223). The inspiration and motivation given by the team leaders were genuine, a military post that facilitated the implement ation of the planned activities.Participative Leadership This kind of leadership entails the involvement of team members in decision-making process (Langton & Robbins, 2007, p. 389). Through this kind of leadership, the understanding of the underlying issues of implementation by individual members was enhanced. They thus became more committed to the activities of implementation (Pearce, 2007, p. 357). Under this leadership, people became more collaborative as opposed to competitive and worked on joint team goals.Situational Leadership In this type of leadership, the leader applies the best action depending on the array of factors of the situation at hand (Northouse, 2004, p. 78). This type of leadership is as a result of several forces namely the circumstances, the followers and the leader. This style focused more on the behaviors adopted by the leader under different situations (Parry & Bryman, 2006, p. 456). The leader with the most excellent ability of making better decisio ns had an upper hand in applying the style.Conclusion In conclusion, managing the activities of a project is a long process more so when dealing with cross-cultural teams. It calls for the manager to understand the different backgrounds of these members. This is done through the application of several techniques as such as the understanding of the cultural differences, their cause, how to change the perception to a common goal of the team and how to motivate individual members bearing in mind the aspect of different backgrounds. This way, he or she is able to inspire the followers to make the best team under a common goal of implementing the activities of the project successfully. On the leadership issue, it is vital that the leader understands the best type of leadership to apply on the team members (Osborn et al., 2002, p. 811).Recommendations After carrying out all the activities of the project, it became necessary to develop some recommendations based on the lessons learnt . The following are the recommendations that I would implement if I was to undertake the project again as the monitor.To reduce the risk involved when engaging members from different cultural backgrounds in a team, it is essential to apply a flexible approach of management that allows for effective communication, reporting and actions on the raised issues.To change project processes so as to accommodate cultural differences, establishing good relationships with key members of the team is a must. This is geared towards winning their trust which in turn helps the project execution process smooth.To efficaciously implement the activities of the project, the manager is obliged to know what motivates the team members into doing good job, their specific skills and know-how and their respective communication styles.The combination of participative leadership and transformational leadership is the best option in a project implementation. This is so because participative leadership involves the members in decision-making process and hence motivating them. On the other hand, transformational leadership involves the leader inspiring and motivating his followers.ReferencesArbaugh, J. (2007). induction Project Management Education Emerging Tools, Techniques, and Topics. Academy of Management Learning & Education, 6(4), pp.568-569.Ashkanasy, N. M., & Tse, B. (2000). Transformational leadership as management of emotion A conceptual review. In N. M. Ashkanasy, C. E. J. Hrtel & W. J. Zerbe (Eds.). Emotions in the workplace Research, theory, and practice (pp. 221-235)Chung, J., Wai, Y., Lau, D. and Songip, A. (2013). Teamwork A Success Factor of Knowledge Management for Faculty Development A Case Study. International Journal of schooling and Education Technology, pp.192-195.Collyer, S. and Warren, C. (2009). Project management approaches for dynamic environments. International Journal of Project Management, 27(4), pp.355-364.Daft, R. and Lane, P. (2005). The leadership expe rience. Mason, Ohio Thomson/South-Western. Industrial/organizational psychology (pp.235-278).Klimenko, O. (2014). Complex Project Management historical Background, Problems and Approaches, 3(3), pp.4-13.Langton, N., & Robbins, S. (2007). Leadership. In N. Langton & S. Robbins. Organizational behavior Concepts, controversies, applications Toronto Prentice Hall, (pp.386-426).Lowe, K. B. &, Gardner, W. L. (2001). The years of the leadership quarterly Contributions and challenges for the futures. Leadership Quarterly, 11(4), 459514.Malinowski, M. (2011). Essential project management skills. Project Management Journal, p.n/a-n/a.Marc, E. & Picard, D. (2000). Relations communications inter-personnel Relationships and interpersonal communications. Paris Dunod.Northouse, P. (2004). Leadership. Thousand Oaks, Calif. Sage.Osborn, R. N., Hunt, J. G., & Jauch, L. R. (2002). Toward a contextual theory of leadership. The Leadership Quarterly, 13(6), 797-837.Parry, K. W., & Bryman, A. (2006). Lea dership in organization. In S. T. Clegg, C. Harry, T. B. Lawrence & W. R. Nord. The Sage handbook of organization studies (pp. 447-468).Pearce, C. L. (2007). The future of leadership development The importance of identity, multilevel approaches, self-leadership, physical fitness, shared leadership, networking, creativity, emotions, spirituality and on-boarding processes. Human Resource Management Review, 17(4), 355-359.Pearce, C. L., & Sims, H. P. (2000). Shared leadership Toward a multi-level theory of leadership, Advances in interdisciplinary Studies of Work Teams, 7, 115-139.Sashhin, M. (2004). Transformational leadership approaches A review and synthesis. In J. Antonakis, A. T. Cianciolo & R. J. Sternberg (Eds.). p. 171Scarnati, J. (2001). On becoming a team player. Team Performance Management An International Journal, 7(1/2), pp.5-10.Schneider, S. and Barsoux, J. (2003). Managing across cultures. Harlow, England monetary Times Prentice Hall.Seteroff, S. S. (2003). Beyond leade rship to followership. Victoria Trafford.Stewart, B. and Powell, S. (2004). Team building and team working. Team Performance Management An International Journal, 10(1/2), pp.35-38.Symonds, M. (2014). Managing Cross-cultural Project Teams. Leadershipwatch. online functional at http//blog.parallelprojecttraining.com/project-management-articles/managing-cross-cultural-project-teams/ Accessed 29 Nov. 2014.Wateridge, J. (2001). Successful Project Management. International Journal of Project Management, 19(3), p.191.Wojciech Macek, W. (2011). Methodologies of Project Management. Contemporary Economics, 4(4), p.121.Wright, J. (2002). Effective Project Management. International Journal of Project Management, 20(8), p.633.Xie, H. and Zhang, A. (2013). Approaches and Processes of the Project Management. AMR, 790, pp.724-727.Source document

Financial Planning (Insurance) Case Study Essay

Allison has recently been promoted by her employer, Best merchandise, and now earns $135,000 p. a. exploiting effective time. She has commenced salary sacrificing 30% of this amount into highlyannuation, and her employer contributes l mavenliness pension Guarantee Contributions of 9% of her remaining interchange salary. The fund is a equilibrize refund retail old-age pension fund, MM Superannuation. Her f beginninging balance is $160,000 and earns on add up 7% p. a. afterward tiptoes and taxationes. She to a fault has $100,000 in term life and TPD insurance cover within her crackannuation fund.She drives a 4-year old Land Cruiser that is richly paid for. It has low kilometres and she expects to pass off it until she retires. She impart then drive $30,000 to purchase a new car on top of the trade in she expects to ingest from the Land Cruiser. Simon works for Newbolds Pty Ltd, a comp both which fills custom furniture. He earns almost $45,000 p. a. and intends d oing this work for the fore put onable future. He is supplied with a work vehicle and his employer honorariums his SGC ground on his $45,000 salary.Simon has $47,000 in retirement fund savings, held within the PP Superannuation Fund. The funds atomic number 18 invested in a balanced/ conservative portfolio with a low altogetherocation to step-up assets that earns around 4% p. a. after fees and taxes. They argon living on a semi-rural property which is valued at around $750,000, but they latestly need a mortgage of $150,000 as a line of credit. They be salaried approximately $1,000 per month as interest-only payments. Their opposite personal expenses are around $40,000 p. a. and they spend an spare $15,000 p. a. on holidays.Aside from private health cover, car, and house and contents insurance, the only personal insurance they bring is the coverage pop the questiond in Allisons retirement check fund. They do non have a depart or both powers of attorney but they wan t to en sure as shooting they have sufficient specie for their grandchildren (now old 6 and 4 geezerhood) to attend university. They estimate they will pack to accumulate approximately $120,000 (in todays dollars) over the undermentioned 12 years to pay for this. Allison wants to work for five or six more years and they wish to pay off the remainder of the mortgage over that time.She overly wants to increase the amount of money in both her and Simons superannuation. When she retires she believes they will need $40,000 (in todays dollars) for their living expenses in retirement, but Simon intends to continue working part time and estimates he will earn $20,000 p. a. They intend to use Simons in get hold to fund any holidays. Aside from their superannuation assets, they have $9,000 in a believe account for emergencies earning 4% p. a. , $15,000 in a term deposit earning 5% p. a. and $12,000 in a cash management account earning 5. 5% p. . They are not happy with the taxation im plications of these accounts, as any interest earned on the term deposit and cash management accounts seems to go in tax. You ascertain that they both have balanced encounter profiles. Required You are required to put up written responses to the following scenarios and questions, either in short answer form or using gage orients (or both). The following attachments are included try on Financial table attend tos Guide (Personal Advice) Sample Fact sentry and luck Profile Questionnaire Sample Ongoing Service Options Establish Relationship with knob You are preparing for an initial interview with Simon and Allison Callahan. a) Give some thought to the sort of things you would cover. Include any legal essentials and other(a) reinforcement which whitethorn be helpful in the interview. For the initial interview with the guests I would cover what Azza financial services stands for, their commitment to the customer and any legal implications, go over the financial service s guide (send protrude with letter before hand) and privacy constitution and compliance.I would also make the customers aware that the information they are providing is to be used solely for the purposes of assessing their situation to help them get to a better financial position. I would allow the customers to do most of the talking, recording their responses in a fact finder, and ask the client to off a risk profile questionnaire to get a feel for what their financial position is at the present, what charitable of expectations they have on Azza financial services, how ofttimes risk they are willing to take on and if there is anything ab reveal(predicate) their situation that world power prevent Azza financial from providing advice to the client. )How might you ask the client to arrive at for the first meeting? By sending a confirmation letter indicating how immense the interview will in all likelihood be, the purpose of the interview and what is the outcome intended, adv ising the client if there are to be any fees paid, providing the client with a list of documents to bring (eg current insurance policies, super recitements, current enthronement schemes, income and expenses, latest tax returns, military ratings of assets such as property, bank and credit card statements. ) To establish a relationship with Simon and Allison, what strategies might you use to name rapport during the interview process? offer food or drink (eg coffee, biscuits, tea, water) monitor client body language and engage in similar movements to make them feel more comfortable ask open ended questions to show clients you are interested in the personally and want to hear what they have to say. d)What are the four points you must cover when presenting a Financial Services Guide? Fees and charges = explain what fees might be applicable, including benefits and commissions that could be received by 3rd parties/referrers or product providers as a payoff of the see being impleme nted Products = outline the features of the products and services being inspireed Complaints Policies and Procedures = make sure to completely explain the procedures for handling customer complaints Relationships = explain any relationships which might influence which products are recommended or provided e)List the type of fees you could charge the clients. What are the benefits of explaining these fees to the Callahans?Types of fees which could be charged to the clients if they choose to implement the active platform are plan fees (often charged regardless if plan is let ined), commissions, entry fees, management fees, account keeping fees. The benefits of explaining these fees to the clients are that there will be no nasty surprises and they will go to sleep what they are getting themselves into from the start. It also provides defense for the advisor in the event that the client deems something unreasonable. In other words, there will be no misunderstandings about the po ssible cost of advice. ) noinate the range of financial products and services you will be providing advice in. Name the benefits of explaining these to your clients. The financial services and products which I could be providing advice on range from simplistic things such as bank deposit accounts to general and life insurance, complex and simple enthronization funds schemes, general and specialized superannuation schemes, commonwealth planning issues (although a lot will be directed to a solicitor if I am not qualified to provide advice on that particular area, the same goes with taxation).The benefit of explaining these to the client is that they will be more aware of what it is Azza financial services poop help them with, and if they will need to be involving any third parties to complete their requirements (eg control or solicitor). It also takes away any misconceptions as to the outcome of the advice provided and puts everyone on the same level expectation wise. The clients a lso may not have been aware of particular products and services offered which once explained may change their needs and requirements which might have not previously been considered by the client. )Outline the three steps your clients should take if they have a complaint or dispute prior to contacting the ASIC. Clients should first contact their advisor to make sure that their disatisf run is not due to a misunderstanding or something which can be ammended to their satisfaction. I would endeavour to solve their complaint within 3 working days. If the clients are up to now unhappy, they should lodge a formal complaint with the liscensees internal complaints process and allow appropriate time for this to be acted upon. If the clients are still unsatisfied with the outcome they may then contact the Finance Industry Ombudsman Service (FOS) for complaints involving losses of less than $500,000. FOS first trys to negociate and outcome between the involved parties, if this is not possib le the topic is passed for formal assesemnt by a panel. FOS is free to clients and the decisions it makes are law to the liscensee. 2-Identify Client Objectives and Financial Situation a) What techniques or tools could you use to gather further information about your clients goals, objectives and financial situation? Fact finder Financial documentation tax returns, statements, scheme overviews etc Use of open ended questions Diagnostic questionnaires endangerment profiling b)Using your case study, complete the attached Fact Finder with as much information as you can. Remember that this document is used to collect current information as well as identify any issues, problems or constraints that may be relevant in developing your advice. See Fact Finder i)From the scenario in your case study, write down one or more limited financial goals for the generic needs provided. Wealth creation for a specific purpose Start increasing Allison and Simons Super balances ($160K and $47K) sacrifice for grandchildrens university in 12 years estimated needed $120K in todays dollars Wealth security Take out Personal insurances to avoid eroding savings if something unforeseen happens income protection, trauma, evaluation of current life and TPD Debt reduction Pay off IO mortgage of $150K in 5 years Tax minimization Save on tax on bank accounts/term deposits peradventure downsize family home and move mortgage to coronation property to save on tax Superannuation Start increasing Allison and Simons Super balances ($160K and $47K) and evaluate suitability of current funds investiture visualisening Possibly purchase Investment property to produce another income stream and save on current tax Look into other investment excerpts to diversify current wealth Estate proviso Establish will and power of attorney with solicitor c)Write down a line of questioning that you would use in the initial interview to increase your understanding and obtain furthe r clarification of the clients goals and objectives.Use open-ended questions starting with What, How, When, why and Where. Apart from what we have already discussed, tell me about any other goals, long or short term that you might have. What do you plan to do when you retire? What is your current state of health? Eg do you smoke, are you aware of any issues that could affect your ability to work? Simon, what sort of duties do you perform at work? (- for insurance purposes we need to ascertain what type of work Simon is doing in golf-club to now which category he fits, A/B/C? ) What are the contact elaborate of your accountant? (- Financials) If you have a solicitor, what are their details? power of attorney, will) What are your plans/goals in relation to the planning of your estate? Tell me what other possible financial details you could have overlooked in filling out the fact finder? (- no credit cards? No shares or any investments outside of super and level(p) bank acco unts? ) What level of cash reserve do you feel comfortable keeping liquid for emergencies, and are you expecting to receive a pomposity contribute of money in the future? What are the premium details of your current life and general insurance policies? When are you considering downsizing the family home, if at all? d) What action would you take immediately after the first meeting?Immediately after the first interview I would Clearly write down everything which needs to be investigated or researched, in relation to what types of products, tax issues, possible strategies, the sources of information and a timeline for completion. This is so that I can prove I have been compliant with the corporations Acts requirement of investigating the subject matter of the advice. I would ask the clients to sign an authority accepting the breeding and research of drawing up a financial plan and agreeing to pay any fee which may be incurred as a extend of this advice. e) Simon and Allison have a balanced risk profile. unload the sample Risk Profile Questionnaire to reflect this. See risk profile 3- Analyse Client Objectives & Financial SituationWill Simon and Allisons current financial circumstances and other concerns meet their objectives without your assistance? a) Why/why not? No, Simon and Allisons current financial set up is not adequate to allow them to meet their goals and objectives. This is because they are note contributing enough in their superannuation to achieve their desired balances, they do not have any estate plans in place, their current bank accounts are leaving them paying excess tax, they are not sure how to structure their expenses in order to reach a comfortable position upon retirement in 5 years time, and their personal insurance are grossly insufficient to keep them in their current lifestyle and meet expenses should something happen to one of them. ) List the assumptions you made. Allison and Simon do not have current solicitor whom they have talked about creating a will or power of attorney with Allison and Simon are of middling intelligence and have not had much to do with Financial planning services in the past. Allison and Simon do not know much about investment schemes, Superannuation regulations, Life insurance or Taxation Allison and Simon have used an Accountant in the past to prepare their yearly tax returns The average evaluate rate of return is 6% Expected CPI is 3% and current tax rates have been used. c) Reference information sources that you have relied on in forming your view. RG146 training Australia DFS course material and scenario Australian Taxation Office website (www. ato. gov. au) Financial Planning association website (www. fpa. asn. au) Westpac and BT Financial group case studies (internal) 4 Develop becharm Strategies & Solutions a) Describe two research processes you can use to gather information about products and services you recommend to your clients. Independent research houses (eg Standard and Poors and Morning Star) cyberspace searches eg ASX, AFPA, ATO etc Product disclosures, rankings, past performance of companies, Financial fall over newspaper etc Refer to your case study, Fact Finder and Risk ProfileDevelop a scheme for each of the following points for Simon and Allison. Describe each of your strategies in terms of key characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. b) Please address Allisons insurance requirements. Your response should include a draft description of each type of cover and actual amounts recommended. Include calculations and explanations of amounts. limit Life term life insurance provides a bulk payment to the beneificiaries of a person upon their closing, or in some cases when disgnosed with a terminal affection the person insured can also received the payment. offered to people from 16-75 and can renew until age 99. Can be paid via stepped premiums (where premium increases with age, you pay more in the long run) or le vel premiums (same amount througout policy, 30% cheaper than stepped in long run, and indexed to CPI) Advantages of having life insurance are that it gives the insured ease of mind knowing that they are not leaving their loved ones in poor financial positions upon their death and ensures they are looked after Disadvatanges are that there are a few exclusions to the policy such as suicide within first 13 months, War, exist conditions, aids, and terminal illness/disease where it is a direct extend from an action which was self-inflicited. Currenlty Allison has $100,000 expenditure of life and TPD insurance within her superannuation. In regards to life insurance this is unluckily inadequate as the estimated living costs for Allison and Simon are $67,000 per anum. In order for Simon to continue meeting these expenses (whilst still working) if allison were to becomed de drop by the waysided, the insured amount would need to be scraggy to $475,000.This is because if invested at a n average fixed deposit rate of 6% it would provide an income stream of $28,500 per anum to Simon. (475000/100) x 6 = 28,500 this along with his current net salary of $38490 come to a per anum income strem of $66,990 to meet expenses. An additional $270K should also be added to cover their alert mortgage debt and to have money left over in order to pay for the grandchildrens university education, bringing the total life benefit to $745,000. Income protection A fortnightly or monthly payment paid to the insured in the event that they brave out and injury or illness which leaves them unable to work Maximum of 75% of income can be insured and person must be employed at least 25 hours per week. Waiting periods of 14-720 dys apply and benefits periods can be 1-65 years (longer the beenfit period the higher(prenominal) the premium) 2 types of policies are agreed value (specified value to be paid regardless of difference between insureds current and former incomes) indemnity (benefi t based on insured income at time of claim. Advantages are that the insurance provides peace of mind knowing that if the insured was to suffer from an injury or illness and are unable to generate an income that the benfit will be paid as if it were their regular income, giving them peace of mind that they could stay on top of all their financial commitments and goals whilst healing. Disadvantges are that as income protection is linked to employment, those who are unemployed or even those with occupations which are considered too risky are not able to obtain income proteciton insurance. Also, as the benefit is only 75% of income, the insured will be 25% worse off and will need to make sure this will not affect any financial commitments or goals they may have. Allison presently does not have income protection insurance in place which could end diasterously as she earns 75% of the matess gross income. (180,000/100) x 75 = 135,000). Allison should take out an income protection poli cy with a $101,250 benefit (135,000-25%) which would then provide both her and Simon peace of mind knowing that if anything was to happen they could continue paying their expenses add up and Permanent balk TPD insurance provides a lump sum payment to the insured after a qualifying period ( unremarkably six months) when certain criteria is met. Criteria can be inability to perform own occupation, any occupation, home duties or all duties these are based on the type of work the insured is in (rated AAA-E) Immediate dexterity for TPD payout if insured looses sight or a limb Advantages of having TPD is that if the insured suffers a debiltating injury that sees them unable to return to work that they can still meet their expenses Disadvantages are that it is not available to everyone a new policy cannot be taken out after 60 and policies already in place automatically cease when insured reaches 65.Also unless rated category E, the standard level of cover criteria is any occupati on, meaning that the insured may be able to perform in a role significantly less stimulating, challenging and financilally rewarding which would make them ineglibly to receive a payout even if they suffer a total and permanent diability. As Allison and Simons expenses are $67,00 p/a and Allisons income protection benefit is $101,250, whilst Allisons still working a stand alone TPD policy would be beneficial for having a lump sum to pay off the exisiting mortgage debt of $150K, have enough money to pay for the grandchildrens university ($120K) and possible medical expenses (another $150K) totalling a $420K TPD. Another amount for Living expenses should also be considered for the 6 years until retirement ($67,000 x 6 years = $402,000).This brings the total recommended TPD benefit to $822K which could also be bundled as a rider on Allisons life insurance to avoid overinsurrance. Trauma Trauma insurance provides the insured with a bulk payment when they suffer from an illness specif ied in the policy Can be bundled with life insurance and a payout will decrease the life policy by the same amount Available to people aged 16-55, or trauma for children aged 1-12 years ( waiting periods and age limit criteria apply) Advantages are that as trauma insurance is not related to employment, people with uninsured occuppations can still generally take out trauma insurance.Also the insurance provides peace of mind knowing that if the isured was to suffer from a specified illness and are unable to generate an income that the sum paid will cover their expenses and ease the financial pressure Disadvanages are that there are exclusions such as death within 3 to 30 days of trauma event, trauma caused by an ntentional self inflicted injury or attempted suicide and acts of war. In order to avoid overinsurance Allison should take out around $250K trauma insurance to cover $150K exisiting mortage debt and any medical expenses associated with the event. Allisons Income protecti on will also most likely be able to contribute towards the benefit amount should a defined event occur. c)Does Simon require personal insurance? If so, what types and how much? Please include reasons and calculations Simon could take out the following polices to provide stability and peace of mind for Allison in the event something should happen to him. border Life, Trauma, TPD As Allisons income (or insurance benefit if something were to happen to her simultaneously) alone can support the couples expenses of $67,000, I would recommend a combined life insurance, TPD and Trauma policy, of $690K for Simon (salary of $45,000 x 6 years = $27,000) + $150K mortgage debt + $150K possible medical espenses + $120K grandchildrens education = $690,000), so that the mortgage can be paid out, the grandchildrens education can be paid for, any medical expenses which might be incurred can be paid, and a replacement income stream for simon is created leaving allison debt free if something were to happen to Simon. Income protection It is my view that Income protection is not necessary for simon as allisons income is more than adequate to support the couple with money left over, however if they did not want to draw on this, an income protection policy could be put in place for 75% of his income. $45,000 x 75% = $33750 ($33750 / 12 = $2812. 5. this would mean Simons monthly benefit woul be $2812. 5 (75% of his monthly income). D) What is the most efficient way for Simon to contribute to superannuation and why? How much should Simon contribute? As Simon is on the lower end of the income tax scale, it is beneficial for him to make non-concessional contributions into his superannuation as he is qualified for government co-contributions for every $1 he puts in up to $1000.As Allison is on a higher MRT than Simon, if she were to salary sacrifice a larger portion of her income into both their superannuation accounts (shes currently Sacrificing $40,000 into her own, however this cou ld be brought up to $70,000 and then she could sacrifice another $20,000 per anum into Simons in line with their goals of increasing their super balances) they would be paying less tax (as Allison in on the highest MRT and super contributions are at 15%) and they can use Simons income (on lower MRT) to put towards their expenses, thus Simon should not contribute too from his salary preceding(prenominal) the SG of 9% and non-concessional contributions past $1000 (as his super will be paid in by Allison to achieve the above stated tax advantages).Simon should also merchandise his investment system to a balanced blend as it is too conservative to his risk profile at the present. e)Is Allison contributing sufficient funds to superannuation at this time to meet their retirement objectives? Please explain. To meet their objectives of having $40,000 per anum to live off in retirement, Allison is not contributing enough to her superannuation at this point in time. Allowing for the effec ts of compounding interest, after 5 years Allisons superannuation balance would have accumulated to $224,400 (at 7%). In order to provide an income stream of $40,000 Allison will need to bring her balance up to $580,000 by the time she retires in 5 years.This means Allison will need to make up the difference ($580,000 $224,400 = $355,600) in the next five years. Allison will need to contribute another $30,000 p/a ($355,600/5 = $71,120) her current Salary Sacrifice of $40,500 = $30,000 to her superannuation to achieve this balance and their retirement objectives. Allisons current total superannuation contributions per anum are $40,500 in salary sacrifice (30% of salary of $135,000) along with a Superannuation assure of 9% of her remaining salary ($135,000 $40,500 = $94,500, $94,500 x 9% = $8505) bringing her total contribution to $49,005. f) Are their additional benefits available to Simon or Allison as a result of your strategies above?By Allison salary sacrificing more of her i ncome she is saving astronomical amounts on tax as the contributions tax is only 15% as opposed to her MRT. As stated previously, Simon will also be eligible for the government co-contributions with his non-concessional contributions. Allisons income protection policy (and Simons if taken out) are also tax deductible. Simon is also eligible for the low income tax offset of $804 from a maximum of $1350 for income earners of under $30,000. For Simon his amount is worked out with the following calculations 1. $1350 ($45,000 taxable income -$30,000 threshold) x 4% = 546 and then 2. $1350 546 = $804) g)What is your recommendation regarding an investment for the grandchildrens university education? What are the benefits of this investment?For the grandchildrens education I would recommend investing in a balanced education savings plan (they would need to contribute $7000 p/a (at approx 7%, and with the effects of compounding interest) to reach their goal of $120,000 in 12 years) as the amount invested in taxed at a flat internal company rate of 30% however after 10 years the amounts can be withdrawn for non education purposes tax free, and as the investment is to be over 12 years Allison and Simon could take advantage of this. If it was to be withdrawn earlier, they are still in a effectual position as the money would be invested with a bit more risk than that of an everyday savings account and the taxation benefits still outweigh other methods, especially with the low income offset which is still said to be increasing. h) Are their bank/cash investments (total $36,000) meeting their requirements? Why/why not? What do you recommend? No, currently these investments are not meeting Allison and Simons requirements as they are held in both names and are accordingly subject to Allisons higher MRT.If Allison and Simon fixed to use the advantages provided by income splitting (that is, transferring term deposits and interest bearing accounts into Simons name) then they would save on tax as Simon has a lower MRT. Allison and Simon could also see of putting this money in their Superannuation to capitalize on the 15% contributions tax or putting it into the mortgage as then they are paying less interest, however this would depend on whether or not they would be needing to keep this money liquid for everyday use and emergencies. i) How would you address their goals of paying out their home loan and purchasing the new car upon retirement? In order to pay out their home loan in 5 years time, Allison and Simon would eed to put around $40,000 P/A towards due to interest payable. After Allisons extra salary sacrificing for both their Super accounts, the couple have around $45,000 surplus disposable income per anum. $40,000 can be used to make these extra payments on the home loan and the other $5000 can be put into a high interest savings account for the 5 years (which if invested at the average deposit rate of 6% will leave them with $29576. 10 after 5 years with the effects of compounding interest) which will leave them with enough money to purchase the new car. j) Are their estate planning preparations adequate? Why/why not? Currently Allison and Simon have no estate plan, therefore it being inadequate.I would recommend to Allison and Simon to contact their solicitor to discuss a will/power of attorney using their information we have uncovered done analyzing their financial situation here today. k)What alternative strategies did you consider? Why did you reject them? restitution providing insurances for Simon as well This would be over insuring and wasting money for Allison and Simon as Simons income in relatively small in comparison to Allisons, and she is able to cover all costs if something we to happen to Simon. Superannuation Simon contributing more to his superannuation the tax benefits of Allisons salary sacrifice through decreasing her MRT far outweigh that of Simons and it was therefore better to prioritise with All isons SS and utilize Simons income for expenses.Investments For the grandchildrens university education, possibly investing in something more risky (eg shares) or less risky (eg Term deposits) however the tax advantages and return on the educations savings plan in comparison would leave them in a better position. 5 Present Strategies and carry on Solutions Prior to Presentation a)Describe what preparations you would undertake to present your strategies in step 4 to Simon and Allison. After thorough research enabling me to form my recommendations, I would prepare a Statement of Advice with my findings, make sure to gather all product disclosure statements which are relevant, and information to back up my advice. I would also make sure there was a financial services guide within the information I would be taking to the interview.I would then call the clients to arrange a time which suits. b) What back-up information or documentation might you need? I might need to back up the perfo rmance of particular products/services I recommend (this could be provided in the form of company reports, asx reports, PDS, articles, academic studies etc) also easy to follow breakdowns of any calculations made so the client can see exactly how the strategy will benfit them. FSG and Privacy policy to assure the client of the companies principles and policies in the event of a dispute. During the Presentation c) Describe the disclosure principles and presentation requirements you must adhere to for the following documents ? Statement of AdviceThe statement of advice must have statement of advice written across the front of it, it must be in non complex evince (clear, concise and effective manner), must have a generic description of the range of financial products or strategies considered and investigated. The customer must receive a copy, along with PDS and FSG and must have sign and had the SOA presented to them BEFORE any implementation of strategies can be put in place. A disc laimer is also usually placed at the bottom of the SOA to protect the financial planner and affiliated companies against the working of case law althogh this is not required by the corporations act. ? Product divine revelation Statement The PDS needs to accompany the SOA so the clients have all the information in relation to possible products they are signing up to. Other things which need to be in the PDS include Fees and charges = explain what fees might be applicable, including benefits and commissions that could be received by 3rd parties/referrers or product providers as a result of the plan being implemented ? Products = outline the features of the products and services being recommended ? Complaints Policies and Procedures = make sure to completely explain the procedures for handling customer complaints ? Relationships = explain any relationships which might influence which products are recommended or provided d)List 2 objections or concerns your client might raise. How wou ld you address these in order to gain agreement? 1. How do I know that what you recommend will work out for me in the long run? We have based these recommendations on previous performance of these products and services, all of which you have perceive with your eyes.We cannot 100% guarantee that these potential outcomes listed will occur, however financial planning is what we specialise in and we make it our duty to look after your financial health. If we unwrap that the course which we have mapped out for you is not heading in the direction we have anticipated, you will be the first to know, and we will review your situation in order to alter your plan to best fit your needs, provided you would like us to provide you with this ongoing service. 2. This plan fee seems overly expensive why do I have to pay it? It takes a considerable amount of time, research, investigation and preparation for us to put together a plan that is tailored tout ensemble according to your personal need s.There are no generics or assumptions made with what we are presenting you and the savings and earnings you will make as a result of our guidance will far outweigh the cost of this information. 6 Implement Agreed Plan Simon and Allison have agreed to your plan. a) What transactional documents/authorities need to be signed by Simon and Allison? Authority to proceed / SOA and disclaimer Application forms along with PDS attached A cheque to be written to accompany industriousness form b) Complete an Implementation Plan, in order, that details your planned actions now that Callahans have decided to proceed with your recommendations in step 4, providing an indication of when each must be completed. A Adviser C Client No. Action Who When Sign Authority to Proceed C Now Provide 3rd parties with adequate relation of actions needed to be taken eg solicitor, accountant A ASAP Complete practise forms ready for client to sign A ASAP Present application forms to client with PD S attached to be signed. A + C When ready Photocopy, keep one and give other with PDS to client. Obtain Cheque from Client and attach to application form to be sent to dealer group A With step 4 Welcome letter from dealer is issued A /Dealer - see client file established (maintained for 7 years) A - Confirm with clients that they have received welcome letter and they have heard from any 3rd parties. A - peach to clients about Review Service A When everything is settled 7 Provide ongoing service You now have to address the issue of providing ongoing advice to Allison and Simon. )What environmental (economic, market, regulatory) changes, or changes to their personal or financial situation would cause a review of their plan? Interest rate changed may affect tax advantages, investment earnings New regulatory changes may grandfather or completely remove current strategies in place Market booms and busts may cause portfolio mix to be outdated / underperforming Clie nts may have suffered a loss, or injury causing them to claim and or need to reassess the financial commitments they can keep up with Clients may have come into a considerable amount of money unexpectedly allowing for more room to move in current strategy (e. g. inheritance, lotto) Change of advisor may bring upon new light on their situation, may have a better strategy in mind. b)Describe 2 activities you regularly undertake to keep up-to-date with current legal, ethical and regulatory requirements of the finance sector. lead financial review/finance news, current company legal updates Read the AFPA reports issued and newsletter from BT financial and liaise with current financial planners c)What level of ongoing service would you propose for these clients? ( No service ( Portfolio valuation ( Portfolio review ( Financial Plan review ( Other Describe d)Describe the option recommended for your client, and why you have recommended this option.Describe the level of service you wi ll provide and the associated fees. I would recommend an annual portfolio review for Allison and Simon to ensure that they are on track to achieving their goals. This would involve checking balances and fund mixes to ensure adequate returns have been made and that products are performing as anticipated. I would prepare a letter to send out based on my finding advising whether or not a change could benefit them. As the strategies recommended for Allison and Simone are middling basic a separate fee would not be necessary as this service would be considered to be paid for under the trail commissions. Sample Fact Finder & Risk Questionnaire 1. ain DETAILS node 1 thickening 2 Title Mrs Mr Given Name Allison Simon Preferred Name Allison Simon soubriquet Callahan Callahan escort of Birth 1956 1958 Marital Status M M Home Address Address Lot 3 Wattle Road Suburb/ township Hurstbridge State VIC Postcode Home Telephone No. Preferred connectedness No. CHILD / DEPENDENT DETAILS Name Megan Relationship Daughter Date of Birth 1981 Current Age 29 Financially Dependent NO HEALTH DETAILS Do you Smoke Yes / No Yes / No State of wellness Poor / Good / Excellent Poor / Good / Excellent Are you aware of any health issues that may impact your ability to earn an income? (please provide details) Notes 2. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS CLIENT 1 CLIENT 2 Employment Status ( Unemployed ( Unemployed ( Full while Employed ( Full Time Employed ( Self Employed ( Self Employed ( Part-time ( Part-time ( Retired ( Retired ( Other ( Other Employer Name Best Marketing Newbolds Pty Ltd Position Title Marketing Employee Primary Duties Marketing Custom Furniture Work Address Current Work Phone No. Employment Security Secure just promoted Secure intention to stay long term Are you Contemplating leaving your employer? In 5-6 years Not in the foreseeable future Do you foresee any substantial change in Planned retirement in 5-6 years, possible In 5-6 years will reduce hours to part time your income in the next 2-5 years? reduction in take home pay in the lead up to income will be approx $20K p/a this Notes OTHER consultant DETAILS Accountant Name Company Contact Detail Do we have authority to contact? ( Yes ( No Solicitor Name Company Contact Detail Do we have authority to contact? ( Yes( No ESTATE PLANNING DETAILS CLIENT 1 CLIENT 2 Do you have a current Will? No No Date of Will / Last Reviewed Power of attorney No No Type / Name of lawyer? Do you have Funeral Plans? No No Do you have any specific intentions Intention to pay for grandchildrens Intention to pay for grandchildrens regarding your estate distribution? university in the approx 12 years (approx university in the approx 12 years (approx $120K in todays dollars) $120K in todays dollars) 3. FUTURE unavoidably OBJECTIVE AND GOALS E. g.Current income needs, retirement income needs, diversification, tax minim isation, capital growth, investment security, wealth creation, eliminate mortgage etc Reasons for seeking financial advice Gain assistance with making the changeover to retirement and planning the next five years Short Term (1 to 3 years) Save on tax on bank accounts/term deposits through possibly restructure Start increasing Allison and Simons Super balances ($160K and $47K) Look into other investment options to diversify current wealth Medium Term (4 to 7 years) Pay off IO mortgage of $150K in 5 years Buy new car (through trade in 9 year old land cruiser) worth $30K In 5 years shake off a $40K (todays dollars) p/a retirement income stream in 5 years Long Term (7 year plus) Pay for grandchildrens university in 12 years estimated needed $120K in todays dollars RETIREMENT PLANNING Retirement Details CLIENT 1 CLIENT 2 Planned Retirement Age 59/60 loose Retirement Income required $40K (todays dollar) $40K (todays dollar) After retirement, do you intend to work NO Expected Income= again either on a full-time or part-time $20K basis? Till age undetermined What capital expenses will you have in $ $ retirement? (Please state expense and value) Would you like some assets left to your $ $ estate? Please detail) Notes 4. FINANCIAL DETAILS PERSONAL BALANCE SHEET Lifestyle Assets Owner Date Acquired Value Associated Debt Principal Residence Allison and Simon $750,000 $150,000 Contents Motor Vehicle/s Allison 2006 Land Cruiser No debt Caravan / Boat / Trailer Investment Property Other Total Investment Assets Investment INCOME DETAILS CLIENT 1 CLIENT 2 Income $135,000 $45,000 Investment Income $1770 p/a interest (bank accounts) $1770 p/a interest (bank accounts) Centrelink Income Pension/Annuity Income Other Income Less Income Tax $38554 $7580 Less Medicare Levy $2050 $700 Total terminal Income $94426 $38490 Combined Net Income $132,916 EXPENSE DE TAILS COMBINED Food Entertainment $15,000 Transport/Vehicle Council Rates Amenities Rent Mortgage Repayments $12,000 Other $40,000 Total $67,000 SURPLUS DISPOSABLE INCOME COMBINED Annual $65,916 Monthly $5,493 PLANNED MAJOR EXPENSES Nature of Expense Approx.Expense Amount Expected Date Grandchildrens university $120,000 in todays dollars 12 years Purchase new car $30,000 5/6 years What cash reserve do you require for emergencies or unforeseen expenses? Are you expecting a future lump sum or inheritance? If so, how much? Notes 5. SUPERANNUATION & INSURANCE SUPERANNUATION Company Policy No. Employer/ Personal Are any of the above policies preserved? No Has a tax deduction been claimed for part/all? Yes No Are there any exit fees applicable? Yes No LEAVE PAYMENTS Type Expected Receipt Date Anticipated Amount Annual Long Service Other Have you recently received a redundancy package? Yes No If you have recently r eceived a redundancy package, please provide notice of payments. ordinary INSURANCE Insurance Description Policy Number Owner Date Commenced Sum Insured Premium Payable Term Life and TPD Allison $100,000 Notes 6. INVESTOR RISK penYour attitude to risk is probably the most important factor to consider before investing. To achieve higher returns, you will have to be prepared to accept a higher risk of capital loss. This is because the funds and assets that offer high returns are generally more volatile than those producing lower returns. It is what we call risk/return trade off. We will recommend investment strategies to match your investments to your risk profile. Investing across the various investment sectors according to your risk profile is called diversification. For example, kind of of investing only in property, or only in shares, you might invest a proportion in both, or even include cash or fixed interest to create a balanced portfolio.You ar e a balanced investor who wants a diversified portfolio to work towards medium to long-term financial goals. You require an investment strategy that will cope with the effects of tax and inflation. Calculated risks will be accepted to help you achieve good returns. 17 23 Moderately Conservative A Low Risk Taker You are a moderately conservative investor seeking better than basic returns, but risk must be low. Typically an older investor seeking to protect wealth that you have accumulated, you may be prepared to consider less aggressive growth investments. 9 16 Conservative A Very Low Risk Taker You are a conservative investor. Risk must be very low and you are prepared to accept lower returns to protect capital.The negative effects of tax and inflation will not concern you, provided your initial investment is protected. 7. CLIENT STATEMENT / AUTHORISATION I/We herby declare that the information set out in this form is true and correct to the best of my/our knowledge. I/We are n ot aware of any other information and have not disclosed to the person to whom this form is given any other information which would be relevant to the making of a recommendation by a teach Financial Planning Representative. I/We give permission for this information to be used for the preparation of my/our financial plan and I/we understand that the investment recommendations will be based solely on the information supplied in this form. I/We also note that ( I/we have received, read and understood the Financial Services Guide before any advisory services were provided ( I/we permit this document to be passed in confidence to any member of Mentor Financial Planning Pty Ltd ( Limited Information Provided I/We have provided limited financial information.I/We have limited the product(s) or objective(s) that can be advised on to If you are seeking limited advice of a particular nature you must make this cognize at the time of the interview and you should recognise that the recommendations will only relate to that limited advice being sought and may not be appropriate considering your boilers suit situation and objectives. ( Tax File Number Permission I/We give permission for my/our tax file number(s) as provided, to be held only by Mentor Financial Planning and be forwarded to financial institutions as put across or as necessary. ( Engagement Application I/We request that Mentor Financial Planning investigate research and provide suitable options to the financial objectives outlined in this questionnaire. I/We understand that the preparation fee of $500 is payable for the work to be undertaken. This fee may be credited against my establishment fee should I/We proceed to implement any of the recommendations provided by Mentor Financial Planning. Client 1 Client 2 Signature Date 8. Advisers Declaration I declare that a) the information contained in the Fact Finder is an accurate and complete record of the information obtained from the client(s) b) The client(s) was provided with a copy of the Financial Services Guides before any advisory services were provided. Advisers Signature Date supererogatory Important Information for the Client(s) If incomplete or limited financial information has been provided I, as your Adviser, will not be able to undertake a full needs analysis of your individual investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs There is a possibility that any recommendation given to you may not be fully appropriate to your individual objectives and needs, especially those which I, as the Adviser, do not know and You as the client must carefully ssess the correctness of the recommendations to your own individual investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs before acting on them. To Whom It May Concern Please accept this letter as my/our authority to provide any information requested and documentation if required to Azza Fin ancial Planning (or their representative). Please accept a photocopy or facsimile of this letter, as the original will remain on file at the offices of Mentor Financial Planning. Correspondence should be sent to Level 2, 349 collins Street Melbourne VIC 3000 This authority should remain in force until withdrawn in writing by me/us. Thankyou. Allison Callahan Client 1 Name Signature Simon Callahan Signature Client 2 Name Client 1 D. O. B. Client 2 D. O. B. ___/___/___ ___/___/___ Lot 3, wattle road, Hurstbridge, VIC Address On Going Service Options 1. The No service optionThis generally relates to a one off investment placement based on the agreed investment strategy in the financial plan. In choosing this option, no ongoing service or review of the financial plan and the investment portfolio is provided to the client unless specifically requested by the client or upon the recommendation of the planner. 2. The Portfolio valuation option This ser vice provides reports on the value of your investment portfolio only. The fee charged will depend on the frequency of the reports. In choosing this option, no ongoing service or review of the financial plan is provided to the client unless specifically requested by the client or upon the recommendation of the planner. 3. The Portfolio review optionThis service provides reports on the value of your investment portfolio. The fee to be charged will depend on the frequency of the reviews and will be agreed at the time. The minimum fee is $N/A but this may be higher depending on the complexity of the review. This service includes An annual/half yearly/quarterly review of your existing investment portfolio and its performance smell at further investment opportunities, if appropriate establishing if there have been any changes in legislation, the economic environment and state of the financial markets that may impact on your recommended investment portfolio In choosing this option, o ongo ing service or review of the financial plan is provided to the client unless specifically requested by the client or upon the recommendation of the planner. 4. The Financial Plan review option This service provides for an annual/half yearly/quarterly review of the boilersuit financial plan strategy and the investment portfolio recommended. Each review will be presented in the manner of a written report and recommendations. The fee to be charged will depend on the frequency of the reviews and will be agreed at the time. The minimum fee is $__500________, but this may be higher depending on the complexity of the review. This service includes roviding reports on the value of your investment portfolio an annual/half yearly/quarterly review (including comments) of your existing investment portfolio and its performance looking at further investment opportunities, if appropriate establishing if there have been any changes in legislation, the economic environment and state of the financial markets that may impact on your recommended investment portfolio and the boilers suit financial plan strategy establish if there have been any changes to your personal circumstances or financial goals and objectives ascertain if the overall financial plan and the investment portfolio is continuing to meet your financial goals and objectives (including an insurance review) and making any new recommendations (if necessary).