Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors - Term Paper Example The metals used are mainly gold and silver. When the surface plasmons collide with light energy, a kind of resonance occurs named; surface Plasmon polarization. The resonance continues oscillating along the surface of the metal decaying gradually through loss of energy to the absorption into the metal and radiation to the media interface i.e. air or water or other surface (Bozhevolnyi, 2008). The resonance of the surface Plasmon is then used to monitor the reflected light energy from a prism coupler in relation to the angle of incidence. This method can be applied to solve real life problems like observation of nanometer variations in density, thickness and molecular adsorption. Devices are being innovated every day in application of this technique. The surface Plasmon resonance sensors (SPRS) help detect chemicals, molecules, tissues like proteins, metals among other materials. This technology has been commercialized hence it is used in a very wide number of fields i.e. mass destruc tion weapons, medicine, security protocols, pharmacy, production plants, service delivery like water for residential use, optic communications and so on (Thirstrup, 2004). New and Useful Applications of Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensors The applications could be classified into four distinct groups: 1. Optical sensors 2. Biosensors 3. Chemical sensor Optical Sensors The most influential application of this technology was in the fiber optic. In this type of sensors, data is converted into light energy and interfaced with a dielectric metal. The high refractive index of the metal allows for total internal refraction thus the light energy is infinitely refracted along the cable with minimum loss of energy. This excites the surface Plasmons thus creating a surface resonance wave. The fiber optic cable is designed with a core metal in the centre, a bimetallic surround to the inner metal, a protective layer of metal preventing the effect of external waves to the wave in transit and insula tors all around each layer. When a light is beamed on a prism at an angle greater than the critical angle of the media, total internal reflection occurs. The wave formed in the media could be manipulated through the use of a material with a higher di-electric constant. This could be regulated to match the surface Plasmon resonance. It in turn creates a wave that travels along the surface of the metal at very high speeds. The energy formed through conversion of light energy to electronic energy can be controlled to achieve optimum sensor values i.e. increasing the two main parameters: sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio. The sensor can be improved by using a dielectric media with a high refractive index. However, the materials used are limited to costs thus a balance needs to be maintained between the two (Wang, 2002). Figure 1: prism experiment of the surface Plasmon wave Biosensors These are devices used to analyze the detection of analytes that combine physiochemical detector co mponent with biological components e.g. tissues, molecules, fluids and so on. This technology takes advantage of the application of surface Plasmon resonance sensors at the molecular level. This is technically used to identify various types of molecules based on the level of excitement induced by a photon of light incident on the molecules of the object in test. The biosensors are used to perform rather difficult tests i.e. testing the Ph of the brain, the Ph of the eye, the Ph under the skin and so on. The

Marketing Norway Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Marketing Norway - Research Paper Example In Norway, the political system is structured in such a manner that it respects the freedom of expression of its citizens and the right of each citizen to enjoy civil liberty and human rights. Judicial, legislative, and executive setups of the country work in their own jurisdictions so that the authority of these three core elements of the state does not collide at any point in time. Norway’s government is considered as an important contributor towards global politics, and its suggestion and recommendations are a part of international charters pertaining to peace, consumer rights, civil laws, criminal enquiries and etc. (Ebsco, 2009). Norway is also an important ally of NATO and the reputation of the country in international peacekeeping missions is inevitable. Keeping the reputation of Norwegian government in the international and national politics, it can be asserted that the government structure of the country is reliable and not considered as being an economy friendly setu p which does not impose unnecessary legislation on the restriction of business activities in the country (Ebsco, 2011). A potential market for ARIO in Norway would be could be those areas, which have a high concentration of youth population and tourists. Basically, main shopping areas or centers in the main cities of Norway can be considered as its targeted areas. In these areas, higher population of youth would mean that ARIO’s outlet should be located near a university, college, dorm or a hostel. Moreover, theme parks and tourist destinations also receive a large number of youth tourists and travellers. Keeping this in view, the major cities of Norway where universities and other educational institutions are located are suitable for the company. These cities include Alesund, Bergen, Drammen, Oslo, Alta, Hamar, Levangar and Trondheim (DataMonitor, 2011). Oslo is the capital of Norway and the biggest tourist destination in the country. In addition, a majority of Norwegian

This ERP case study on why and how Peet's chose its ERP system and Essay

This ERP case study on why and how Peet's chose its ERP system and executed the implementation in less than two years begins her - Essay Example After a careful analysis, it has been concluded that implementing a new ERP system is an effective strategy that would be beneficial for the company in various ways, ensuring that the loopholes are eliminated right from the root from where they surfaced. The case study report would reason the adopting and implementing the second option alongside highlighting the advantages of purchasing and implementing new ERP system. In addition to that, the challenges that a company would face while implementing such a system will also be discussed. Finally, an overall conclusion and recommendation will be provided suggesting the ways to tackle such challenges and maintaining the efficiency of the business operations carried out within the organization. Table of Contents Introduction 4 Discussion 4 Advantages of implementing the ERP system 6 Challenges that might occur because of implementing the ERP system 7 Reference List 9 Introduction The report will involve a thorough analysis of the case stu dy in order to determine an optimum choice that can be adopted as a recommended course action. The case studied involves the issues that were recently faced by Peet’s Coffee and Tea. The case study highlighted the inability of the older system or resource management, implemented by the organization, to keep up with the demands placed on them. The problems that surfaced from such a system was not only limited to improper inventory management, but also went to the extent of an improper order management and procurements and other financial activities. Thus, these issues that surfaced called for the necessity to send out a request for proposal (RFP). It was a critical time within the company’s history that necessitated coming up with an optimal course of action that would either focus on modifying the existing system that prevailed within the organization or would establish a new Enterprise resource planning systems that can be implemented efficiently. Thus, the following sections would involve the discussion regarding the alternative options available at the company’s disposal, including the advantages and challenges of adopting such a course of action. Therefore, appropriate reasons will be set forth for supporting the rationale behind implementing the recommended strategy. Discussion The fact that the existing system prevailing within the organization posed numerous problems in the operational activity of the business that resulted in the system’s inability to meet the sales demand, explains the reason why modification of the existing system would not be an efficient and effective strategy. Thus, the alternative option at the company’s disposal is to implement a new Enterprise Resource Planning system that would help the company recover from the existing level of instability. The new system will enable the company to manage all the integral and external business process effectively and independently. This highlights the necess ity for bringing about a complete change in the system as modification of the existing system, would not be a viable option that can eliminate all the loopholes present in the company’s resource management framework. An outright change in the system by purchasing and implementing a new Enterprise Resource planning mechanism will enable the company to meet the rising demand for sales in an appropriate manner (Cassidy, 1996). It would help to ensure that total

Human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Human resource management - Essay Example In short, employee’s effort (F) towards an action is the valence (V), i.e., value attached to the outcome multiplied by the probability/expectancy (E) attached to their action that will lead to the desired outcome (Koontz, 2010). Considering this theory in McDonald’s context provides some very interesting findings. For instance, McDonald’s motivation and recognition schemes include bonuses for high performers, recognition as employer, team and manager of the term, champion awards, promotions etc (Lovewell, 2013). Considering that the motivation factors are varied among employees, most of the factors fall into either monetary, or non-monetary categories; and, McDonald’s attempts to provide opportunities for earning both types of rewards, thereby considering both extrinsic and intrinsic motivating factors. Employees that depend on intrinsic motivation look for recognition of their efforts and will thus strive to achieve the same by putting in more efforts; c onversely, extrinsically motivated staff is satisfied by the bonuses and other compensations such as company-sponsored dinner outings. Job evaluation is the process of systematic and relative comparison of roles to assess their net worth in order to derive a rational pay structure. Job analysis is the precursor for job evaluation and involves the decisions of many people that may be analytical and also subjective (Cole, 2002). For instance, Tesco has adopted a simple, clear and transparent job evaluation system that is based on subjective evaluation and divides its roles into six bands of work-levels. Work and responsibilities are also divided proportionately, with the lowest level being level-1 and highest at level-6. (Level pegging, 2009). Their pay bands are relative to the market standards for the same levels in other companies. This banding has resulted in flat organizational structure, thus reducing bureaucratic levels that were slowing down decision-making and implementing activities as well as increasing costs for the company. Other factors include providing competitive pay packages for their employees compa red to competitors in order to motivate and retain their experienced staff; providing greater flexibility to its managers to identify critical leadership talent and to promote internal candidates for higher roles; thirdly, to improve teamwork and thus productivity; facilitating job rotation and lateral movements of staff members etc. Rewards are meant to motivate employees at all levels, and companies design complex reward systems that include a variety of rewards. For example, monetary rewards such as bonuses, incentives, compensation benefits, and non-monetary rewards such as recognition, promotions, appreciation, additional responsibilities, special training and skill development programs are a few reward systems that contemporary organizations use. As Lovewell (2013) points out, McDonald’s uses service awards to recognize employees’ commitment and loyalty; it rewards high performance with rewards such as restaurant of the quarter, month, and year. To recognize thei r support staffs’ outstanding contribution, they give the President’s award. To appreciate individual performance, they have

Something Beautiful Is Coming Essay Example for Free

Something Beautiful Is Coming Essay HTC was founded in 1997 by Cher Wang and her husband. Wang wanted to manufacture personal digital assistance under contact of established brands. However, the company failed to convince buyers. Instead remained focused on contract manufacturer’s mobile phones according to its customer’s strategic priorities. Cher approaches the business with the eyes of the customer. HTC had nututred contacts into valuable business relationships, creating products that combined customer-oriented design with advanced technology to cast a reputation for consistency and excellence that many industry valued and applauded. In mid 2000, HTC started making customized smart phones running on windows operating system for Deutshe Telekom and Vodafone. This proved strategically shrewd, creating potential growth without having to rely on handset manufacturers. Facts and Figures HTC started making customized smart phones running on windows operating system for Deutshe Telekom and Vodafone. This proved strategically shrewd, creating potential growth without having to rely on handset manufacturers. Under this ‘operator business model’, sales exploded, growing 100% annually, with net profits rising some 300% per annum since 2003. HTC soon became darling of the market, with share prices soaring 1000% in March 2006. Mission A customer oriented positioning that communicated its strengths and tapped into the zeitgeist of its target market- tech savvy trendy customers interested in performance and design. Strategy Business Strategy- Sustained on ‘operator business model’, proved immensely successful. Functional (Marketing) strategy- The key to its strategy was its partnership with networks such as vodafone Internet and viral marketing proved effective Sponsorship of the Columbia –HTC cycling team in 2009 ensured messaged reached millions of viewers worldwide

Detective stories have been very popular from the mid 1900s Essay Example for Free

Detective stories have been very popular from the mid 1900s Essay The victim in The Speckled Band was Helen Stoner and the victim in The Gatewood Caper was Audrey, even though she kidnapped herself. Both the victims in the two stories were women and they had a problem with their fathers. Audreys grudge was mainly due to the loss of her mother. Both of their fathers had towering figures for example Harvey Gatewood is described as: He was a big bruiser of a man, something over 200 pounds of hard red flesh and a czar from the top of his bullet to the toes of his shoes From this description we can see why Audrey had problems with her father, like when he lost his temper what could Audrey do with a man with that physique this also applied to Helen Stoner as Dr Roylott had the same temperament and physique. However, Dr Roylott was a stepfather. Ms Stoner was completely innocent unlike Audrey who took the law into her own hands instead of seeking help which Ms Stoner did. Ms Stoner was the more traditional as she was helpless and frightened of her father unlike Audrey was who kidnapped herself trying to hurt her father and from victim she turned to villain. The villain in The Speckled Band was Dr Roylott and the villain in The Gatewood Caper was Audrey, as well as being the victim. Both of the villains were cunning and smart and they both had motives, but Dr Roylott was the more traditional as he was mean and aggressive. Dr Roylott also had a criminal history as Helen Stoner tells us: He beat his native butler to death, and narrowly escaped a capital sentence. Audrey wanted to hurt her father mentally and financially and had an accomplice, which wasnt traditional as the villain should be alone. The ingredients required to be a villain are present in Dr Roylott and in Audrey as both had quarrels, but unlike Dr Roylott, Audrey didnt commit an evil crime. Audrey just ran away from home because she was sick of being tied to her father Harvey Gatewood. She fooled everyone by claiming to have been kidnapped because she wanted revenge on her father by getting his money, but there was no real harm done. The villain, Dr Roylott in The Speckled Band also added to my enjoyment of the story. Whenever his huge towering figure would arrive in the story I would get so tense and eager because I was worried that his actions would be fatal. This feeling made me feel as though I was inside the story. You couldnt even identify who the victim and villain was in The Gatewood Caper let alone feeling you were a part of the story and there wasnt enough background information which would make it easy to understand. Both the settings in the stories were good and added to the enjoyment of the story. The Gatewood Caper was set in the city in a rich area. However, The Speckled Band setting was more isolated and mysterious and was more eerie as it was set in the countryside in a big mansion which for me is more traditional. The fact that there were gypsies and animals in the set made the story more enjoyable to read. The setting also added to my enjoyment of the story mostly because of the extras like the baboon, cheetah and gypsies which made the setting like an extra character in the story. The whole creepy and unusual feeling about Stoke Moran funnily made the setting more pleasant for me to read. The setting of The Gatewood Caper was good, but it didnt get me involved with the plot. Both stories followed my anticipation of a classic detective story structure. The Speckled Band and The Gatewood Caper had the crime being described at the beginning of the story. The story started with the report of the crime. But in The Speckled Band I didnt discover the problem straight away; I was made to wait for a while which built up suspense, as I was eager to discover the crime. Both stories had a period of uncertainty in the middle of the story where the investigation was proceeding and the detective began to gather evidence. In this section the main similarity between the two stories was the fact that the detective in each story had already solved the crime, but me, being the reader was made to wait until the end of the story to discover the outcome. Both stories also had a period where the case was solved and explained by the detective at the end. The main difference in the structure of the story between the two stories was the fact that unlike The Speckled Band the criminals in The Gatewood Caper were not punished at the end of the story. I also found the structure of The Gatewood Caper hard to follow and confusing at times. Therefore I have chosen The Speckled Bands structure as being the more classic detective structure. The style of writing in The Speckled Band was very detailed, well described and precise. But it moved slowly which led to building up suspense holding my interest. The language was very different, but both were formal and the vocabulary used was of early 1900s. The Speckled Band had been written in Standard English unlike the The Gatewood Caper which was written in American English. The Gatewood Capers style of writing was less detailed, but it moved fast and got to the point quicker than The Speckled Band. Because it moved fast it built up the suspense much quicker, but it wasnt that effective for me. The language was very different from The Speckled Band as it was more modern and used vocabulary from the era we are in now. Overall The Speckled Bands style of writing was more like a classic detectives style of writing. The Gatewood Caper moved and started faster and tended to get to the point quicker, which is the style in which writers like to write these days. The Gatewood Caper was more modern as well as there wouldnt have been a shopping mall in the time of Sherlock Holmes and there were not many agencies in traditional detective stories. The themes raised by The Speckled Band were exactly what I had expected for a traditional detective story. The themes of a classic detective story were very straightforward and The Speckled Band raised all these themes. For instance crime doesnt pay. Dr Roylott didnt fulfil his evil motive by killing Helen Stoner. Good beats evil; Sherlock Holmes was able to unravel the evil truth behind the death of Julia Stoner. The themes raised by The Gatewood Caper were exactly what I didnt expect. Because good and evil were not easy to spot as the themes were not what they seemed and the whole truth doesnt come out. It didnt seem that Audrey got punished and the whole thing was a waste of police time as the only thing which was solved was a family problem. The morals of the story were quite different from what I expected as running away doesnt solve problems is not a theme I would expect in a detective story. The theme raised by The Speckled Band was another reason that made the story more enjoyable to read. The theme raised by The Speckled Band was very common to most detective stories. In normal detective stories you may discover the theme that the guilty are punished after villains are sent to jail, this theme is discovered after a very normal and unimaginative event. But in The Speckled Band this theme was demonstrated after a venomous snake had killed the villain, Dr Roylott, in mysterious circumstances. The way the themes were discovered added to the excitement of the story. Both stories had the same issue of the troubles in relationship between father and daughter. In The Speckled Band Dr Roylott was more violent and bad tempered and even though he was their stepfather he was practically all the girls had. To save his money he killed Julia and attempted to kill Helen. On the other hand in The Gatewood Caper the relationship between father and daughter was less violent as Audrey looked for attention. A classic detective story would have the more violent storyline of The Speckled Band as it is more explosive. This relationship issue made Dr Roylott more of a feared character and this induced more tension, which a classic detective story would want. In every category The Speckled Band obeyed the rules applied to a classic detective story. The themes raised by The Speckled Band were identical to themes raised by a classical detective story. Like a traditional detective story The Speckled Band identified the hero, villain, and victim very clearly and they were very simple to follow. The Gatewood Caper was unable to do this even at the end of the story I was struggling to identify the villain and victim in the story, as there were two possibilities. For some people this is an enjoyment and they like reading this type of story, but for me I was lost in finding the villain or victim that I couldnt understand the story. I personally preferred The Speckled Band rather than The Gatewood Caper, and there are multiple reasons for this. I found the plot of The Speckled Band extremely entertaining and that it was wrapped up at the end. This is because events such as the snake built up suspense which made me eager to read on. The plot events were enjoyable to read because it was easy to build up a picture from the description. There were far more dramatic events full of suspense and drama in The Speckled Band rather than The Gatewood Caper which had a lot less description. The main reasons I believe I personally preferred The Speckled Band was better because the story had the ability to include interesting characters by using great description. It included many exciting events which built up suspense making me eager to read on and find out what happened. It also included puzzles and mysteries for me to solve during the story. All these factors fulfilled a description of a classic detective story. The Speckled Band was like a classic detective story which is why I preferred this story to The Gatewood Caper story. To what extent did The Speckled Band and Gatewood Caper match the expectations of a traditional detective story ?

Bentley Motors Limited Maintain a constant effective communication

Bentley Motors Limited Maintain a constant effective communication Project Responsibilities: To work in tandem with the Bill of Materials (BoM) department in successfully generating and structuring the part numbers for BY831 (Bentley Mulsanne) and BY624 vehicle configuration with the help of SAP based environment called TIsyncro. Maintain a constant effective communication between designers of different department to meet up with the deadlines. Organise training to the relative departments employees to inform and trained on the changing policies and methodologies of the department and project respectively. To provide an interface between functional managers, BoM, Digital Mock-Up (DMU) department and the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Department to ascertain that the flow of information if unambiguous and accurate. Organise a product review meetings with the customers and the managers of relative departments. To mitigate the issues escalated from the BoM and different functional departments. To provide support in creating Clients requirement based reports. 5. Competencies demonstrated: (please refer to the APM Body of Knowledge, Competence Framework) The purpose of this assessment is to identify where my competence lies just now in relation to skills and professional studies. This assessment will reflect on previous/current work and courses and should help to identify my current level of skill. It is a detailed analysis of how I feel about my skills and competencies in relation to project management. Technical competence: The technical competence involved learning of 3D modelling software CATIA, LCA (Life Cycle Application) tool to structure the parts of BY831 (Mulsanne) and BY624 vehicle configuration. Context of Project Management (PM): In the context of Project Management, the technical competence involved developing skills on PM tools like MS Project and MS Visio. This has enhanced my skills on resource planning and appropriate scheduling of Projects. Behavioural competence: Behavioural competence involved developing robust behavioural skills by working for two managers with two leadership styles, strong communication skills ensuring details and expectations of the project are met to the highest standard, and constant interaction with functional managers of different departments catered to the enhancement of behavioural and interpersonal skills. Context of Project Management: Behavioural competence in the context of Project Management involved developing team building and leadership skills, time management skills by working on team placement project that involved working in a synergistic manner in order to avoid antagonistic behaviour as an individual. Section 3: CPD Self- Assessment Form This assessment addresses the experiences and knowledge gained/ shared by studying MSc Project Management at The Robert Gordon University (RGU). K= knowledge; E = experience ONLY TICK ONE K AND ONE E FOR EACH COMPETENCE Competencies Happy with my current level of For my current role in the Team Project I need to increase my For my future career I need to increase my K E K E K E Project management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Programme management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Portfolio management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project control à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project sponsorship à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project office à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project success and benefits management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Stakeholder management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Value management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project management plan à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Competencies Happy with my current level of For my current role in the Team Project I need to increase my For my future career I need to increase my K E K E K E Project risk management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project quality management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Health, safety and environmental management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Scope management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Scheduling à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Resource management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Legal awareness à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project life cycles à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Concept à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Definition à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Implementation à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Handover and closeout à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Project reviews à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Organisation structure à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Organisational roles à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Methods and procedures à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Competencies Happy with my current level of For my current role in the Team Project I need to increase my For my future career I need to increase my K E K E K E Governance of project management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Communication à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Teamwork à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Leadership à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Conflict management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Negotiation à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Human resource management à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡ Areas of strengths identified Gaps identified Scope Management Project lifecycle Teamwork Project Management Plan Leadership and Communication Organisational Roles Conflict Management and Resolution Project Management Office Health and Safety and Environmental Management Programme and Portfolio Management Project Management Negotiation Project Risk Management Organisational Structure Analysis of Project Success and Benefit analysis Methods and Procedures Value management Project Risk Management Human Resource Management Technical Competence on Project Portfolio Management (PPM) software i.e. Primavera Professional Certifications like APMP, CAPM, PRINCE 2 and so on. Section 4: Development Plan DEVELOPMENT PLAN Based on the contents of your current CV and your responses to the CPD Self Assessment Form (Review) in which you have identified the areas in which you need development, please complete your Development Plan. Where do I want to be in 5 years? The Postgraduate degree in Project Management has provided me with enough of robust information on managing complex projects within the Project Management constraints of scope, time, cost and quality. I would like to carry on with these skills and be an effective, efficient and smart Project Manager with team building and leadership skills to manoeuvre complex environment of managing range of complex projects. How will I achieve my aim? I would like to achieve this aim through Continuing Professional Development in terms of having professional certifications indicating enhancement of technical and behavioural competence. I would also believe that development of interpersonal skills, living in a pleasant ambience would substantially add some benefits in realising my aim successfully. What current skills and knowledge gaps prevent me from achieving my aim? Value management Project Risk Management Human Resource Management Technical Competence on Project Portfolio Management (PPM) software i.e. Primavera Professional Certifications like APMP, CAPM, PRINCE 2 and so on. Out of aforementioned knowledge gaps, Professional Certification is one of the most important knowledge gaps that need to be fulfilled and would substantially provide an opportunity to stand ahead in the competition from other Project Management practitioners. 5.0 LEARNING AND REFLECTION RECORDS- FORMAL EDUCATION 5.1 Learning and Induction from the Induction Programme Induction Programme Learning In the induction programme, a basic overview about the university was addressed i.e. infrastructural facilities, introduction of staff members pertaining to the course, the cultural values that would be gained through interaction between students of diverse cultural background. Also, I was able to learn the basic rules and regulations to be followed in the city/ country and one of the members from the Grampian police had addressed about the social laws and regulations and the Grampian fire service had addressed about the health and safety measures, fire incidents and so on. There were general and academic induction programmes and I was able to learn in both academic and professional way. Also this programme consisted of providing valuable guidance to students to make use of library and other RGU facilities. Infozone provided ample guidance in getting the opening of bank account, health guidance and also about NHS service. International Student Advisors provided/ provides continual su pport on immigration and visa information. Reflection Through this induction programme, I have had an opportunity to reflect this learning by adhering to the rules and regulations of the city/ country and the lessons learned through working in teams on different academic coursework including project technical implementation can be implemented in future endeavours as well ranging from different complex projects and improve behavioural skills including ethics. 5.2 Learning and Reflection for Academic Activities for First and Second Semester of MSc Project Management Module 1: Project Fundamentals Learning In this module, an overview of the basic nature of managing general projects was addressed, not specifically focussed on one type of project. I was able to get a basic insight into the concept of projects and Project Management and learnt the basic difference between projects and Business As Usual (BAU). The module used the concept of project life cycle as the organisational guideline, and provided a brief understanding on the contents of different phases of a project like project initiation, project planning, project execution, project control and project closure that covered the whole process of project management activities like, Project Management Plan, change management, project quality, Stakeholder Management, risk management and many others. From these activities, I basically learnt the concept of business case and its development and its importance as the primary deliverable of initiation phase of project life cycle. In a nutshell, I conclude from my learning that the princip les of project management are applicable at all levels of the project hierarchy, ranging from individual work packages through to the provision of responsibility. Reflection This module provided me a lot of insights into different elements of Project Management and I was able to put all these theoretical elements into practice by doing a team project on the construction of Heathrow Terminal 5. Firstly, this project provided me a robust experience of working as a team of varied culture and secondly, it provided an opportunity to understand the application of different project management activities in the practical environment (construction of Heathrow Terminal 5). This project also provided me an opportunity to implement all the learning on the fundamentals of projects and project management into practice and share knowledge between the team members by providing a detailed business case and the project management plan for the project. Having known with the basic principles of project fundamentals module, this learning can be reflected on future endeavours involving all the areas of Project Management. Module 2: Project Planning and Control Learning This module provided a basic overview of core activities of the planning phase of the project. I learnt about the fundamentals of project planning like scope management, how to create Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for the allocation of resources to projects, and an overview to create cost estimation and budgeting and apply IT led resource scheduling and allocation techniques with the help of Gantt chart and Critical Path Method (CPM). Alongside these things, I was able to get a basic insight into critical evaluation of key project monitoring and control techniques and their impact on the successful completion of projects. Finally, I learnt different quality systems and requirements of the project in order to add value to the client and the business as a whole. Reflection This module provided me a basic insight into different elements of Project planning and control and I was able to put all these theoretical elements into practice by doing a team project on the relocation of oil and gas company office. The project involved relocating the employees of different departments and their possessions to a bigger office space. We, as a team, got involved in preparing a project plan to ensure that this project is completed on time, within budget and would not affect the smooth flow of work and interrupt the operations at the existing building. More emphasis was given on project scheduling and provided a detailed Gantt chart indicating deliverables and milestones with a detailed resource histogram depicting the resources. Also, the allocation of resources for different tasks was depicted with the help of Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). This project provided me a robust experience of working as a team of varied culture and secondly, it provided an opportunity t o understand the application of different project planning tools and techniques in this project and having known with these basic tools and techniques, this learning can be reflected on future endeavours as well. Module 3: Project Organisation and Behaviour Learning In this module, basically an overview of organisational learning with roles and responsibilities was addressed and three types of organisation structures were dealt in detail i.e. Functional based, Matrix based and Project based Organisational structures and I learnt that more emphasis would emphasis would be given to project-based and matrix-based organisation structure for the effective implement of Project Management for the successful completion of projects. I also learnt behavioural issues in projects and how these issues would impact in maintaining robust relationship with the client and the constant interaction between conflict management and negotiation in projects and project management environment. During the discussion on behavioural issues in the project environment, emphasis was laid upon the socio-cultural aspect of Project Management and I learnt that the constant development of antagonistic behaviour of the individuals and lack of synergistic behaviour within the team s or in general the organisation structure would affect the project/ programme managers and including the team leader to manage the teams and would result in ambiguities within the team members with lack of knowledge sharing and result in the unsuccessful completion of projects. Hence I learnt that the role of effective leadership right from the strategic level down to the operational level is essential in problem solving and decision making process and develop efficient communication on the technical and socio-cultural aspects of project management within the team members leading to effective organisational learning. Reflection I was able to reflect on the learning that I got from the project organisation and behaviour module in the form of team project on International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The basic reason for choosing this project to put all the theoretical elements into practice is due to its sensitive nature because this project, in the real environment, involved international stakeholders from seven different nations intend to develop fusion energy for peaceful purposes. The purpose was to provide a transformational organisational structure in order to mitigate behavioural issues and manage conflicts within the Organisation. Module 4: Commercial Realties for Project Management Learning This module provided a descriptive learning on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the project at the initiation phase of the project life cycle. The qualitative analysis included environmental analysis that in turn included three types viz., SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats), PESTEL (Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Environmental, Legal) and Porters Five Forces Model. Quantitative analysis included investment/ financial appraisal and consisted of four types i.e. Payback Period (PBP), Accounting Rate of Return (ARR), Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). The qualitative analysis provides a detailed overview of merits and de-merits of undertaking a project taking micro, meso and macro factors into consideration. However, quantitative analysis provides a detailed overview on the financial aspects of the project i.e. Return on Investment (ROI). I was able to get a basic insight into procurement and supply chain issues and legal issues in the context of projects and project management. This module provided a basic overview of different types of dispute resolution techniques used in the project environment between the stakeholders. Reflection Based on the learning, I have had an opportunity to work on a hypothetical project. This project is aimed at building a multi-speciality veterinary hospital in Aberdeen and providing all the modern sophisticated medical facilities to the domesticated animals in order to eradicate all sorts of endemic and fatal diseases and provide a healthy environment. The project involved in providing a detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis, contracting strategy, procurement plan and dispute resolution techniques in the context of projects and project management. Learning through this module can be implemented in future real time endeavours that range of complex projects. Module 5: Project Strategy and Leadership Learning In this module, the meaning of strategy was dealt and an overview of the link between strategy and projects was addressed. I learnt that how strategic decisions at the top management level/ strategic level would impact the projects and project management and learnt the concept of Strategic Project Management (SPM). I learnt the concept of Project Portfolio Management that was viewed as a tool/ method of prioritising and selecting portfolio of projects for their successful completion by linking the projects with the Organisations overall business strategies. I learnt the difference between Project Management, Programme management and the Project Portfolio Management and the interdependency between them and the overall business strategy. In order to ascertain successful completion of portfolio of projects through decisions taken at the strategic level, the concept of strategic leadership, Project Management Office and project governance were dealt with prime importance. I learnt that t he gap of governance between the corporate governance/ corporate level (strategic level) and the Project Management can be avoided by introducing the concept of Governance of Project Management (GoPM) framework that links the strategic and the tactical/ operational level. However to ascertain successful GoPM, I learnt that the three important elements i.e. Organisation structure, people and the flow of information within the framework should be organised well. I also viewed Project Management Office (PMO) as the core department within the business function that maintains the tools, techniques and methodologies of Project Management and also responsible in upgrading the tools and methodologies of PM. I learnt the concept of maturity model and its impact on all the areas of Project Management (PM) and viewed maturity in the context of PM as part of organisations diverse culture and not just a tool/ methodology for managing projects and learnt the concept of Organisational Project management Maturity Model (OPM3) developed by PMI and got an insight into how this model correlates Project, Programme and Portfolio Management. I got a basic insight into the Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) and how it is going to impact the success of portfolio of projects and the project strategy including the overall business strategy. I also learnt the concept of global teams and their impact on the performance of projects due to varied culture and how this socio-cultural aspect of Project Management should be managed in order to arrive at the desired project outcome. Finally I learnt the concept of Project Performance Management and their impact on meeting project/ organisation goals and o bjectives in an effective and efficient manner and I also got an insight into how stakeholder commitment is directly linked with project performance management and their alignment with the business strategies. Reflection Based on the learning, I have had an opportunity to work on a real team project. The aim of the project was to analyse, plan and develop the overall strategy for the management of the companys project in order to meet the companys budget, schedule and quality parameters set out at project approval but also deliver optimum value to the company. In the project, we assumed the role of engineering directors that had been tasked with proposing a new strategy for the efficient management of the companys business operations. Though the project was carried out from the university without being there at the client organisation, this project gave us a good exposure in implementing all the elements of project strategy and leadership module into practice and can also be implemented in future professional endeavours. Module 6: Risk and Safety Management Learning In this module, I learnt the concept of risk and risk management in the context of Projects and Project management. I learnt to identify, analyse and critically assess risks throughout the phases of the project life cycle. Risks in terms of organisational structure, culture, stakeholders and so on were addressed in the context of projects and project management and learnt on how strategic decisions of the management would be risk-driven in terms of delivering the projects successfully. I learnt more about sensitive projects. It was dealt that projects tend to become sensitive depending on the level/ intensity of risk involved in the project and based on this, I learnt that quantitative and qualitative risk assessment tools and techniques can be used depending on the type of projects and the level of risk involved. I also learnt that how organisation would look at individuals attitude towards technical and socio-cultural risks involved in projects in the context of project management. I also learnt the concept of Health Safety Security Environment (HSSE) and the awareness of legislative and statutory requirements and integrate health, safety and environmental policies into Project Management Plan (PMP). I did learn about how performance of HSSE can be effectively and efficiently monitored for successful management of risks and how organisational structure and their responsibilities can affect the successful implementation of effective risk and safety measures within the organisation. Reflection This module gave me the exposure in implementing all the elements into practice. I completed individual coursework on risk and safety management in the transportation of spent fuel in the United Kingdom. This project focussed on the key risks involved in the transportation activity at the back end operations of the nuclear power plants, key legislative requirements and health safety measures for the transportation of spent nuclear fuel, decisions concerning top management on the transportation issues and proposal of new strategy for the ongoing monitoring of risk and safety management. In a nutshell, the learning through this module gave a basic insight into different elements of risk and safety management and can be reflected on future endeavours as well i.e. in the real work environment Module 7: Supply Chain Management Learning This module provided a basic overview on different supply chain frameworks, supply chain tools and techniques used in the area of supply chain management, design of supply chain strategies and modelling and simulation techniques in the SC. Devising of supply chain structure or supply chain network diagram provided a basic overview of understanding the flow of information (material and financial flow) among stakeholders along the upstream and downstream of the SC. Reflection This module provided me a robust exposure in implementing all the theoretical elements into good practice by doing two courseworks on the module. In the first coursework, the aim was to regulate the variation of demand and supply of electricity with the optimisation of Supply Chain strategies and to bring in coordination and integration among the trading partners within the Supply Chain. This involved analysing the current SC model of the chosen organisation on node by node basis with regards to their existing SC strategies, tools techniques, SC issues and the SC response on these issues. A new SC model was proposed for the chosen organisation with optimised SC strategies, tools techniques and improvement in the response of SC. In the second coursework, the aim was to identify and analyse humanitarian supply chain issues at the micro, meso and macro level, identify the current technology application in the humanitarian supply chain of the chosen case study and identify the typical stakeholders that impact the SC response. As time is the main constraint of any humanitarian SC, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plays a major role in eliminating unethical practices and improves the SC response. Hence the learning from this module can be reflected on future endeavours i.e. real time projects in the diversified area (from retail, engineering and so on to rehabilitation projects/ humanitarian based SC projects). Module 8: Professional Body of Knowledge in Project Management Learning This module gave an opportunity in learning all the knowledge areas of Project Management, specifically Association for Project Management (APM). This gave me a good exposure to attempt the exam conducted by the university that is tantamount to APMs APMP exam. The module addressed on all the knowledge areas that covered all the previous modules (seven) on Project Management. This module also provided me the guideline in preparing for the APMP exam to get the professional certification. This module also provided a good exposure in knowing different PM standards and bodies. Reflection The examination conducted by the university on this module would be the stepping stone to many future professional certification exams to boost the CV and ensure continuous professional development through lifelong learning and stand ahead in the competition among other project management practitioners to get hands-on experience on future endeavours on a range of complex projects. 6.0 LEARNING AND REFLECTION RECORDS- PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY Activity 1: Student Membership for APM and PMI Learning Holding the student membership for Association for Project Management (APM) and Project Management Institute (PMI) has provided me a basic insight into the happening of events/ seminars/ workshops on different genres of Project Management and I could keep myself updated on the current tools and techniques used in the management of range of complex projects. Reflection By holding the membership for APM and PMI, I have had an opportunity to learn many areas of Project Management through their website, journal articles and e-letter (The membership is still very much valid). As a matter of fact, these learning could be reflected on future career development in the field of Projects and Project Management and provides ample opportunity in doing the certification exams like APMP, CAPM and so on and avail for full-time membership. This also provides an opportunity in networking with other Project Management practitioners and share knowledge on different areas of Project Management. Activity 2: Participation in CPD Activities Learning In this session, I learnt about the step by step process of developing the portfolio of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). This session was conducted by one of my Project Management module coordinators in the academic environment and was part of the Project Technical Implementation (Team Placement Project) module. The module coordinator addressed all the sections and elements of CPD and explained the importance of CPD in the development of ones career. Reflection The basic understanding of the process of CPD could be reflected on the career development and be considered as the stepping stone to boost the Curriculum Vitae (CV) and provide a platform in achieving the professional certification and mark it as the evidence of enhanced professional competency and can stand ahead in todays global competition with respect to other Project Management practitioners. Activity 3: Leadership Style of Workplace Supervisors Learning In my previous employment, I was happened to work with two managers at Bentley Motors Limited, Crewe, UK. I have had an opportunity to perceive different leadership style of these managers. Manager A: I worked under Manager A for about 6 months and got to learn about the Autocratic style of leadership wherein leaders have more powers over their team members. Also the contribution to the process of decision making was limited. Manager B: I worked under Manager B for 9 months and learnt about the Democratic style of leadership and had an opportunity to contribute to the process of decision making as a team and the level of enthusiasm was optimal. Reflection Based on the real-time professional experience with the managers of my previous organisation, and having had a great opportunity in perceiving two different styles of leadership, I would like to reflect these professional learnin