Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the financial firm, Morgan Stanley and the Swiss Bank, UBS. The writer points out that the goal of most financial institutions is to extend the deadlines for the loans given to its customers in order to match the deadlines of the institution's resources. Therefore, the proportion of long-term assets in the total assets indicates how prepared is a financial institution to face future difficulties. The writer notes that UBS is doing very well, with 97.6% and 98.8%, in 2003 and 2004, respectively, of its total assets being long-term assets. Further, the writer points out that the situation is similar in Morgan Stanley's case, 98.6% in 2003 and 98.9% in 2004. The writer concludes that both institutions are well prepared to face any potential risks, which explains in part the prestige of both Morgan Stanley and UBS.



Introduction
Operating Profitability
Asset Utilization
Risk Management
References

From the Paper
"UBS is the largest bank in Switzerland. It was formed from Swiss Bank's purchase of the old UBS back in 1998 and is divided into four units. The wealth management unit is the world's largest private bank and also incorporates the Swiss retail banking division. The investment bank unit was formerly known as "Warburg". Another unit is the asset management section, which serves institutions and individuals. The fourth unit is the U.S. brokerage division, previously known as PaineWebber. UBS has tried and succeeded to establish a common brand for all its acquired entities."

Tags:bank, finances, assets, investment

Abstract
This paper, based upon an interview and some further research drawn from secondary sources, looks at how the field of human resources has evolved over the past few years and at how HR personnel today must have excellent organizational, research, interpersonal and technical skills. The paper notes how conflicts between individuals and tight deadlines are the most pressing problems, though multi-tasking is also a concern; the paper additionally notes how companies are increasingly integrating HR together with the business side of things. Research assembled for this report also indicates that HR personnel are becoming better-educated and are now expected to anticipate market trends - something they did not have to do in the past. The essential points of the paper are as follows: Human Resource personnel must be better-educated than in the past; they must have greater numeracy; they must understand the business side of their company; and they must be able to meet tight deadlines. The major conclusion is that HR is now an integral part of any organization and these professionals face greater demands as a result.

From the Paper
"1. The typical day involves coordinating affirmative action plans, screening candidates, conducting on-campus interviews, producing information sessions, administering disciplinary actions, performing market studies and doing employee training on initiatives like diversity programs 2. The responsibilities include assisting with the summer help and intern program, preparing reports for supervisors and conducting regular job evaluations..."

Tags:human, resources, field

Abstract
This paper takes a peek into the corporate culture of the Apple Computer corporation. According to the paper, despite the image the company projects of being very hip, there is a very strong work ethic and commitment to deadlines that isn't common across other high tech companies globally. The paper reports that a sixty or seventy hour work week is average for the typical Apple employee, and the higher the position the greater the commitment required.

Outline:
A Glimpse at Apple's Corporate Culture
Apple's Financial Position in 2006

From the Paper
"The company attracts workaholics looking for a cause to completely commit themselves to. As a result of this dynamic and the fact that in many of the company's years it has been thinly staffed, there is almost always more work to be done than people to do it. As the company has at times fought for its survival and had to rely on unconventional approaches to getting work done, it has earned as reputation for being nonconformist. As the brand thrives on this image the fact is that Apple is one of the hardest working and most driven PC companies in the world, an attribute that is responsible for their survival as others have fallen. A sixty or seventy hour work week is average for the typical Apple employee, and the higher the position the greater the commitment required. Guy Kawasaki (1990), head of Software Evangelism, writes in his book The Macintosh Way, of the hours that he would invest in planning software developer visits to convince them to write applications for the Apple Macintosh. Kawasaki was a big reason the Apple Macintosh succeeded as he created a very strong and reliable group of software developers that provided Apple with the necessary software applications to make the Macintosh usable. The company would eventually adopt an Open Source platform approach to software development and greatly increase the options for its loyal customers in the process."

Tags:workaholic, Open, Source, platform, computers, technology, iTunes, iPods

Abstract
The paper examines an online site that pushes forward an interesting approach to teaching children how to write effectively. In particular, the paper outlines what the process involves and what the shortcomings are with the aforementioned approach. The paper argues that the writing process Kim Steele has developed - while it undeniably organizes her classroom and gives her students a sense of what is expected of them - is too teacher-focused, too punitive and allows the teacher to have a measure of flexibility in terms of deadlines that she does not appear to accord students when it comes time to marking them; the grade scoring is somewhat mystifying, as well. In the end, the paper contends that Kim's online timeline has a worthy objective it simply fails to reach.

From the Paper
"Without question, knowing what is valid and what is not valid on the internet is critical for young teachers seeking information and lesson/unit plans. With that serving as a backdrop, this paper will examine an online site that pushes forward an interesting approach to teaching children how to write effectively. In particular, the next few pages will outline what the process involves and what the shortcomings are with the aforementioned approach. Ultimately, it is my contention that the writing process Kim Steele has developed - while it undeniably organizes..."

Tags:internet, learning, timeline

Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at various customs and practices that are present in Japan. The writer demonstrates that in many ways such customs and business practices are different from those in America. The writer points out that when negotiating in Japan, it is best to observe a highly deferential communication style, as opposed to a confrontational style. Further, the writer explains that debate and an open show of disharmony will make a negotiator seem rude, rather than dominant or skillful. In this essay, the writer discusses different types of communication and presents an overview of Japanese styles and customs.

Outline:
Communication Style and Preference
Formal/Informal
Linguistic Differences
Language Barriers and Interpretation
Nonverbal Communication (body language, eye contact, space)
Structure of Business Correspondence
Cultural Norms and Religious Influences
Organizational Structure of Businesses
Hierarchy & Leadership style
Individual or Group Orientation
Role of Women
Negotiation Process
Style and Phrases
Deadlines
Rules of Engagement
Family and Social Structure
Hospitality
Ethical Considerations
Legal and Government Considerations
Codes
Labor Regulations
Works Cited

From the Paper
"The Japanese are likely to know that shaking hands rather than bowing is considered appropriate by Americans, but be prepared to bow, nonetheless. One lesser-known fact is that an American should avoid making the 'OK' sign, as in Japan it means money rather than affirmation. Pointing is simply considered rude."
"As in all nations with different nonverbal protocols, avoid using large hand signals, extremely animated facial expressions and dramatic movements that could be misinterpreted by one's host. Also, although the Japanese may be prepared for American communication differences, it is worth remembering that the Japanese do not talk with their hands and to do so with great animation could distract the Japanese, rather than prove an asset to communication."

Tags:cultural, protocols, respect, loyalty

Abstract
The paper discusses how Apple fulfills the strategic objective of having the right product, at the right price, at the right location for the right customer. The paper relates that Apple has always had one of the strongest work ethics and a commitment to deadlines that isn't common across other high tech companies globally. The paper explains that Apple's introduction of iTunes and iPods has revolutionized personal digital entertainment and continues to propel the company to the highest levels of financial performance it has ever attained both in terms of profitability and sales performance.

From the Paper
"The most critical aspect of Apple's Operations Systems is the continual synchronizing of the many supply chain components that comprise the company's global operations with their production centers. Operations must keep the supply chain in synch with both indirect and direct-based selling channels if the sales and profit goals are going to be achieved. Figure 1 provides a graphical representation of the Apple supply chain, as defined through the research completed by Prudential Equity Group LLC (2006)."

Tags:supply, chain, components, synchronization

Abstract
This paper explains that many procrastinators exhibit perfectionist tendencies and deal with emotional burdens including anxiety, a sense of being overwhelmed or depression. The author points out that some consequences of procrastination are missing important deadlines, poor work or personal performance, lack of preparedness, diminished sense of self or quality of life and even medical or health related problems. The paper suggests that solutions to procrastination include downsizing tasks into bit-size chunks to eliminate the stress and anxiety associated with completing a lengthy task and delegating tasks to others so that tasks are accomplished on time, every time. The paper includes a few examples.

Table of Contents:
Introduction - Procrastination Defined
Characteristics of Procrastinators
Effects of Procrastination
Conclusions

From the Paper
"How is procrastination exhibited differently among varying cultures? Not much empirical evidence is available comparing the procrastination habits of say Americans vs. Japanese. Most people who procrastinate tend to dawdle in the same ways; many are unaware that their actions may result in "dire consequences" for themselves or their businesses. Much of procrastination stems from functioning in an overly stressful, competitive and anxiety producing business arena, which is common the world over, whether in Japan for example or the United States."

Tags:perfectionist, depression, downsizing, delegation, time-wasting

Abstract
This paper discusses how, in order to keep the shuttle program an effective vehicle for space exploration, safety of the astronauts must always be the first concern. It explains how deadlines must always be flexible and based on the ability of NASA to make a launch that is as safe as possible. It also discusses how final votes on decisions must be made anonymously to eliminate the influence of group pressure for a goal inappropriate for such a risky endeavor.

From the Paper
"The Rodgers Commission, in addition to making numerous suggestions about how to improve the structure of shuttles and ways to increase safety for the astronauts, noted the management decisions that contributed so significantly to the disaster. They particularly noted that decision makers were under considerable pressure to maintain ambitious flight schedules (Harwood, 1986). This pressure stemmed from both political and economic forces. NASA will have to decide whether its goals are one of scientific inquiry or of making money through space exploration. When it is recognized that these two goals are incompatible, they will have to be prioritized. Given the inherently danger to space exploration, it will be clear that safety, based on the best science available, will have to be the overriding concern. In decision meetings, the structural dynamic must support real inquiry, not simply support a predetermined and preferred outcome."

Tags:exploration, danger, policy

Abstract
This paper explores the problems related to organizational communication in the workplace as a hindrance to productivity and the ability to effectively organize work activities in a satisfactory manner. he author points out that intense pressures to meet deadlines, stressful work environments and a lack of organization often lead to numerous frustrations and complexities on the job, which tend to reduce the level of productivity. The paper stresses that these barriers may be overcome with a strong commitment from employees to understand their fears and weaknesses in favor of promoting the organization's primary objectives at all times, regardless of their source.

From the Paper
"Many of today's modern workplaces offer employees tremendous opportunities for advancement and flexibility, while maintaining a positive approach to the organization's desired objectives. However, intense pressures to meet deadlines, stressful work environments, and a lack of organization often lead to numerous frustrations and complexities on the job, which tend to reduce the level of productivity that is achieved. For many employees, it is also a lack of support and adequate staffing due to budget constraints that creates new problems in the workplace related to productivity and organization. Therefore, it is necessary for employees to approach their work activities in a conscious and analytical manner, so that all possible objectives are considered and achieved whenever possible. The following brief discussion considers the problems related to organizational communication in the workplace as a hindrance to productivity and the ability to effectively organize work activities in a satisfactory manner."

Tags:communication, barriers, workplace

Abstract
In this article, the writer recommends a team structure within an organization, where employees are promoted to the position of team leader. The many benefits of the team structure are described in this paper. In describing the benefits, the writer demonstrates that the proposed structure provides for the needs of the organization. The writer describes that the structure allows for the new employees to be integrated effectively, for contract deadlines to be met, and for training to occur in an effective way where new employees can immediately contribute effectively to projects. It also provides for other needs, including providing for future human resource needs, allowing flexibility, increasing employee motivation, and providing a positive work culture. The writer concludes that this structure is effective in providing for current needs and for future needs.

Table of Contents:
Suitability of the Organization Structure
Meeting Training Needs
Planning for Future Needs
Providing for Flexibility Needs
Organizational Structure and Motivation
Promoting a Positive Work Culture
Conclusion

From the Paper
"One of the critical factors in determining an appropriate organizational structure is based on the way the organization is suddenly expanding to double its current size. This creates control issues that would not be present if the expansion was gradual. Most importantly, the new employees need to be integrated effectively in a way that allows the organization to continue to operate efficiently. In addition, it is not feasible for one manager to control the integration of so many new employees. This leads to the conclusion that a second level must be added to the hierarchy. All the designers can no longer report directly to the general manager. Instead, the general manager needs to take a more strategic position and allow other staff members to control and manage processes on a daily process. The first question to be answered is how this level of hierarchy would be best implemented.
One option for the company would be to hire someone to take on the position of general manager, with the current general manager taking on a higher level CEO position. This could also be achieved by promoting someone from within to general manager."

Tags:organizational, expansion, operation, employees