Abstract The paper discusses benchmarking as it is applied in the Lenity Hospital for Advanced Care (LHAC). The paper explains how LHAC has experienced several difficulties that can be addressed through benchmarking best practices. The paper relates that its executive management has acquired a consultant on staff to address these strategic solutions. LHAC also opted to partner with a similar institution in order to achieve optimum results.
From the Paper "Root Cause: LHAC has experienced an increased rate of nosocomial infections that is simply not sustainable both from a quality perspective and from a liability perspective. The identified root cause was determined to be inefficient equipment practices within the hospital. Because hospital equipment is exposed to an enormous amount and variety of diseases and environmental pollutants within the context of a medical facility, proper maintenance and procedural care for equipment is essential. The general conclusion from this particular circumstance was determined to be a lack of a proper tracking system for hospital equipment. Such tracking systems are vital at ensuring that equipment is sanitized regularly, is properly situated throughout the hospital and is available when needed by medical staff."
Presents an extensive discussion on the teaching of elementary grade mathematics including a plan for teaching fifth graders the concepts of elementary geometric measurements.
Abstract This paper explains that, because of increased demands for teacher and student accountability, identifying better ways of delivering educational methods for teaching young learners about mathematics concepts is important. The author reviews extensively the Texas Education Agency report on the teaching of mathematics to the state's 5th grade students. The paper uses the materials from this Texas report to develop a guide for teaching the concepts of area, perimeter and volume. The instructional strategy is based on a popular taxonomy used in educational design, Gagne's nine events of instruction. The author concludes that significant learning will take place among the fifth grade pupils according to the constructivist learning theory.
Table of Contents:
Problem Statement and Needs Analysis
Background of the Problem
Definition of the Problem
Needs Analysis
Rationale for the Need for Instruction
Available Resources
Goal Statement
Learner Analysis
Demographic Information
Relevant Group Characteristics
Prior Knowledge of Topic
Entry Level Knowledge and Skills
Attitudes and/or Motivation toward the Subject
Task Analysis
Area
Area: Questions for Reflection
Perimeter
Volume
Performance Objectives
Instructional Strategies and Supporting Learning Theories
Learning Theory Discussion
From the Paper "Absent hands-on exercises, though, many young learners will not have an opportunity to construct an understanding of the process of measurement or a concept of measurement unit which can frequently result in mechanical and inappropriate applications of measurement knowledge and tools. For instance, Baroody and Coslick point out that many elementary-level children tend to confuse area with perimeter and vice versa; some common types of errors that are made by these young learners when using a ruler."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of the common toy, the Frisbee. It discusses the history and development of the Frisbee, particularly how and where it developed. The paper describes and discusses many of the legends surrounding the development of the Frisbee. It then looks at some of the popular modern games played with the toy.
From the Paper "Perhaps one of the most interesting Frisbee sports is Ultimate Frisbee, which was developed at a New Jersey high school and has spread around the world (Kurlantzick 56). Journalist Joshua Kurlantzic notes, "In the past five years, ultimate Frisbee has developed a loyal following in Southeast Asia, a region that has recorded explosive rates of economic growth" (Kurlantzick 56). This game, which evolved in 1968 in Maplewood, New Jersey, is an eclectic blend of football, soccer, and Frisbee tossing. Teams attempt to pass a Frisbee down a 70-yard field to an end zone. Unlike most other competitive sports, there are no officials in the game, instead, players are expected to be honest and call their own fouls. The game has traveled around the world, and many people believe it may one day become an Olympic sport (Kurlantzicl 56)."
Abstract The paper discusses the popular disc game referred to as Frisbee and notes that it comes in a variety of sizes and aerodynamic shapes. The paper provides a review of the relevant peer-reviewed and scholarly literature concerning the invention and development of the Frisbee to determine how and why it has achieved such prominence today. The paper follows with summary of the research and salient findings in the conclusion. Several illustrations are included with the paper.
From the Paper "The Frisbee-style throwing motions occur after the satellites are carried into space by other vehicles, and Rossini and his associates at Goddard have developed a device that is capable of flinging nanosats from their host launch vehicles. According to the developer, "Once the nanosats reach space, they have to separate from their ride. And that's where Frisbee tossing comes in. It's a lot like throwing a Frisbee. The basic mechanics are the same. You need to impart the spin and release it cleanly--all in about a fifth of a second".
Abstract This paper presents a qualitative study on the auditing process of class-A surfacing and the automotive business process within that activity. The paper explores the types of auditing activities utilized within areas of industry that specialize in technical processes. It aims to develop benchmarking techniques to help auto manufacturers better meet the demands of their customers.
Table of Contents:
Literature Review
Why Benchmark?
Benchmarking Strategies and Philosophies
Soft Technologies
Total Quality Management
A Review of Benchmarking Software
Setting Benchmarks for Class A Surfacing
Steps to Creating the Class 'A' Finish on the Plug
From the Paper "The plug must be sealed in a material which is both heavy enough to hide the multiple shaping compounds, yet durable enough to be sanded and polished to a mirror-like luster. This is a difficult task because the two ideas are almost the opposite as far as coatings are concerned. There are few primer/ sealers available that are able to do both. Varnish, lacquer primers, paint and gelcoat have been used to seal a number of surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, plastic, foam and fiberglass shaping compounds for many years (Fiberglast, no date). However, varnish, paint and primers often are too porous to polish adequately and they do not hide the underlying layers properly. Gelcoat is a product on the market that is heavy enough to hide the underlying substrate, but it is difficult to spray evenly and can require extensive sanding efforts to polish smoothly (Fiberglast, no date). The selection of the proper primer and application technique represent a point in the process where benchmarks can be implemented to assure that the rest of the process proceeds as planned."
Abstract The paper discusses the competitive advantage in e-commerce enterprises as it relates to benchmarking best practices. The paper reviews e-commerce related research and examines the functional use of a benchmarking best practices strategy vis-a-vis a company's business strategy.
Outline:
Overview
The Peril of Not Benchmarking Best Practices through Benchmarking Conclusion
From the Paper "At its core, benchmarking is directly related to obtaining competitive advantage and to keeping it once obtained. Competitive advantage is gained in many ways. In terms of e-commerce for either business to business (B2B) or business to consumer (B2C), the importance of benchmarking cannot be underestimated. One of the most important advantages gained from benchmarking off of competitors' or even customers' websites is not necessarily that competitive advantage is gained, but the simple fact that competitiveness is maintained (Luftman, 2003, p.18). Yet, benchmarking best practices in B2B and B2C e-commerce does enable competitive advantage in several key ways."
Abstract This paper examines Lester Electronics, a manufacturing company looking to maximize its growth potential. The paper discusses how through benchmarking, Lester Electronics will be able to implement a strategic plan that will allow the organization to explore the growth opportunities of a successful merger. The paper discusses benchmarking in the beverage industry and focuses on growth potential, financial planning and the benefits of a merger for a company.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Synopsis 1 - Benchmarking in the Beverage Industry
Synopsis 2- Benchmarking in the Beverage Industry
Synopsis 1 - Growth Potential
Synopsis 2- Financial Planning
Synopsis 1 -Maximizing Shareholder Wealth
Synopsis 2- Benefits of a Merger
From the Paper "One way to increase shareholder wealth is to understand the benefits of a merger. A recent merger valued at $23 million between Wrigley's Jr. Company and Mars Incorporated, made Wrigley the leading company in gum and confections. In taking the risk, the transaction between the two companies enhances its potential growth in diversifying the business by promoting the growth to chocolate, non chocolate confectionary, and gum categories. The goal of the merger is to create a strong cultural heritage between the two companies with a commitment to claim world dominance in the candy industry. The merger will help the giant corporation a reduction in distribution costs. The opportunity will enable the corporation to reduce margining costs of production as well."
Abstract This paper discusses the benefits of benchmarking for Intersect Investments. It specifically discusses how benchmarking will allow Intersect Investments to view others companies in the same industry and discover ways to get Intersect Investments back on top. The paper discusses the changing stage and refreezing stage of benchmarking and the company's goals.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Abstract
Benchmarking Conclusion
From the Paper "Intersect Investments has decided to make some changes in the Sales and Marketing department in order for the company to make their vision a reality. There are many internal issues in Intersect Investments that must get resolved before the changes can be effective. Frank Jeffers and Janet Angelo must work together and come up with a strategic approach that will be beneficial to Intersect Investments as well as its employees. Janet Angelo has already used the right approach but she must follow through with feedback in order to gain her teams trust. Frank Jeffers must also learn to provide a positive leadership approach to all section in order to gain their trust. Intersect Investments has the power to succeed with the right leadership tactics and the right organization structure and behavior."
Abstract This paper analyzes the practice of "benchmarking as a measurement of quality control in a company. The writer explores different forms of benchmarking and the advantages of these. The paper also looks at some prime examples of major companies use of the benchmarking practice and what lessons can be learned from them.
From the Paper "Benchmarking is one of the most effective means to identify improvements that can make a significant difference to a company or organization. It is the process of seeking out and studying the best internal practices that will produce the best superior performance. Benchmarking can give great benefits in the education of executives and the performance improvements of operations, as well as determine strategic areas of opportunity. It delivers the marked results so often noted and allows a company to make a direct comparison and identify gaps in improvement areas (What, pg)."
A discussion of performance benchmarking during an online simulation of the Lenity Hospital for Advanced Care (LHAC) and the conclusions reached in the simulation.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, 2006, $ 53.95
Abstract This paper discusses performance benchmarking as it is applied in the Lenity Hospital for Advanced Care (LHAC) in an online simulation. LHAC has experienced several difficulties that can be addressed through benchmarking best practices and its executive management has acquired a consultant on staff to address these strategic solutions. One of the conclusions is the functional strategy of an organization should be based on business level strategies.
From the Paper "LHAC has experienced an increased rate of nosocomial infections that is simply not sustainable both from a quality perspective and from a liability perspective. The identified root cause was determined to be inefficient equipment practices within the hospital. Because hospital equipment is exposed to an enormous amount and variety of diseases and environmental pollutants within the context of a medical facility, proper maintenance and procedural care for equipment is essential. Failure to adequately address these concerns not only exposes the hospital or healthcare facility to a greater degree of legal and regulatory consequences but, most importantly, exposes patients, staff, and visitors to unnecessary levels of contaminants. The general conclusion from this particular circumstance was determined to be a lack of a proper tracking system for hospital equipment."
Abstract This paper explains that in the case of Riordan Manufacturing, a global Fortune 1000 plastics producer employing 550 people, there are three groups of employees having radically different perspectives on rewards and motivation, valuing everything from interesting work to bigger paychecks. The team analyzes organizational leadership at Best Buy, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, J.D. Irving Ltd and Baptist Health Care. The paper deduces, from this benchmarking, that upper management must focus less on themselves individually and more on what is best for their employees. The team questions the value of "Six Sigma" as a methodology versus simply getting the best people in the company together with a top priority to solve major problems. The paper expresses that Riordan Manufacturing's compensation plan appears to be somewhat lacking in areas of pay structure and the reward system as compared to General Electric, the Gallup Corporation and Motorola.
Table of Contents:
Situation Background
Problem Definition
Benchmarking Solutions
Organizational Leadership
Best Buy
FBI
J.D. Irving Ltd
Baptist Health Care
Motivation and Performance
Six Sigma
Morale, Just Compensation, Direction, Job Satisfaction
The Good News
Employee Satisfaction
Financial Strength
Corporate Strategy and Goals
Getting Back the Spirit
ERP as a Strategic Enterprise Initiative Challenge
Environmentally Friendly Products
ERP Implementation
Six Sigma versus Just Getting Good People Together
Let My People Go Surfing
Compensation and Pay Structure
General Electric
Gallup Corporation
Motorola
Employee Rewards
Performance Evaluation
Job Descriptions
Salary Administration
Employee Benefits
Flexible Spending Accounts
Flight Centre, Ltd.
Conclusion
From the Paper "Riordan Manufacturing has a motivation problem. Even though Riordan is profitable and ostensibly well run by looking at the general satisfaction indicators, employees are displeased and demoralized regarding a few key areas of corporate direction and employee compensation and reward systems. This has created a minor crisis for the company. However, the fundamentals of the business remain strong, and this situation should not be blown out of proportion. In fact, that seems to be part of the problem. Whatever problems Riordan is suffering from seem to be magnified under a lens of distortion."
Abstract The paper discusses a research which examines the impact of same-gender grouping during benchmark test administration on the performance of sixth grade science students who have otherwise received instruction in a co-gender classroom context.
Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Methodology
Key Terms and Definitions
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Literature Review
Summary of the Literature Reviewed
Conclusions
From the Paper "The work of Thomas S. Dee entitled: "Teachers and the Gender Gaps in Student Achievement" offers an insight into the gender gaps that exist in education in today's schools. It is stated by Dee that: "this study presents new evidence on whether assignment to a same-gender teacher influences educational outcomes. And it uses these evaluation results to discuss how the gender interactions between students and teacher may shape the early evolution of gender gaps across academic subjects." (2006) Furthermore, the educational outcomes examined in this study include teacher perceptions of a student's performance and student perceptions of the subject taught by a particular teacher. These subjective outcomes are useful simply because they are educationally important outcomes that provide a complement to the results based on achievement scores." (Dee, 2006) The following table lists the 1999 NAEP scores stated by Dee in by subject, age and gender."
Abstract The paper relates that the US Auto company should consider benchmarking as a method of diminishing certain negative aspects, improving positive ones and eventually amplify the company's profit. The paper analyzes Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Company and shows how they represent two different cultures, two different types of management and two different models that can serve US Auto's best interests.
From the Paper "US Auto is an American car manufacturer with an important past on the American car market, but with a less brilliant present and future, as the company is currently struggling for survival. The company's main negative issues that need to be corrected are related to outdated line plant assets, inflated labor costs, and lack of any significant prospects that could provide some sort of boost in the company's future profitability. The only aspect that US Auto is putting its hopes on is a hybrid gas-electric engine that the company has created. Given the fact that negotiations with AutoMex have failed, the company must find other strategies to help it survive."
Tags: hybrid, cars, kaizen, Toyota, Production, System
Abstract This paper explains that, whether considered a negative or positive value, sport confidence and perceived ability do lead to improved performance. The author points out that observational learning, which contributes to acquiring the sport skills needed, as well as to developing sport confidence and to determining an athlete's perceived ability, according to Bandura, includes attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivation. The paper relates that one aspect virtually all the researchers seemed to have accepted a priori was that the sport experience is correlated with skill, but that, from a scientific standpoint, skill defined as ?individual ability and performance" affects self-confidence and self-efficacy.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Sport Confidence and Perceived Ability
Similarities
Differences
Relationships with Other Theories
Conclusion
From the Paper "Further, two of three principles involved in social learning apply particularly well to the sport model. First, individuals will be more likely to adopt a behavior being modeled if they value the results adopting that behavior will produce. Second, they are more likely to adopt the behavior if the model is either similar to or admired by the individual and the behavior has functional value to the individual. This model seems to be more inclusive, and thus more universally applicable, than many other models."
Abstract This paper discusses how self-confidence is an attitude which allows individuals to have positive yet realistic views of themselves and their situations. Self-confident people trust their own abilities, have a general sense of control in their lives, and believe that, within reason, they will be able to do what they wish, plan, and expect. In particular, it looks at how different theorists may have different views on dealing with different behaviors and how they have the same goal: to continuously improve an individual in dealing with oneself and people around.
From the Paper "An individual's aspirations may be influenced by hereditary and cultural factors but ultimately springs from creative power of individual and is consequently unique. A person which feels inferior especially during childhood may create a goal to obtain security and success. According to Adler, depth of the inferiority feeling usually determines the height of the goal which then becomes the "final cause" of behavior patterns. A way of responding to our family constellation may become the prototype of our world view and attitude toward life.
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