Comparison of East Asian Literature

Introduction Literature always provides an excellent platform where authors can present some of the happenings in the society in an artistry manner through fiction. According to Eoyang, authors always use the power of their imagination to depict what happens in the world in such a way that it is not only meant to entertain, but also to teach and offer some guidance on various issues in life.1Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Comparison of East Asian Literature specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Fiction can also be considered as a rich source of history, because most of the writers usually base their story on real events that took place some time back in their lives, or events taking place during the time of their writing. This means that in most cases, it would be possible to detect some form of similarity on works of different authors who had a similar experience in life that shaped the content of their wo rks. As Fong notes, one of the areas to detect such similarities would be the guiding theme in the works, the type of the language used, and some of the historical references made.2  In this study, the researcher intends to analyze two fictions with the view of identifying some of the similarities and differences they exhibit. The book ‘To Live’ by Hua Yu and ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ by Yan Mo were both written in the context of cultural practices in the East Asian, and their transformations in modern China and Japan. Although the two books were written in different timeframes, they both present the transformation of the East Asia from the historical perspective, the two books are presents issues relating to gender, ethics, and environmental concern in this region. This makes it necessary to conduct a comparative analysis of the two books in order to determine some of the similarities that they present. Comparing these two literatures helps in construc tion of the social structure of the people of East Asia. These scholars have given detailed discussion of the social structure of the people of the East, especially the Chinese social and cultural practices. Comparative analysis of these two literatures helps in bringing a detailed understanding of the historic facts in this region. The two books will be discussed to determine some of common and different issues they have in terms of style, theme presented, and any other stylistic features they could have in common. Common Themes in the Two Books These two books share a number of themes, especially concerning the virtues in the society, and some of the historical facts of this country. It is important to note that the two literatures were written in the context of East Asian cultural practices. Both books try to depict the cultural practices of the Chinese people, and the way they related with their neighbor, especially Japan.Advertising Looking for research paper on comparativ e literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More As mentioned previously, these two books were written two different individuals at different times, but both were based on Chinese social background. This means that although they could have some differences in the themes presented, it would be easy to depict similarities, especially in the social practices. The following are some of the similar topics discussed in these two books. Immorality and Unfaithfulness The authors of these two books were concerned of the ethical practices that were common in their society. Although in both books the authors do not complain directly of the rotting culture and the rampant immorality, the manner in which they present immorality shows that they are not pleased with the vice. In the book ‘To Live’, the character in the story talks about several incidences of immorality right from the beginning. The narrator recalls several incidences in his life when he was sent to collect stories and songs from a certain village. While working in this village, the narrator talks of cases when he would meet people engaging in immoral affairs disregarding the fact that some were already married. For instance, the man describes an old man with a bloody nose on a ridge, who was only in his panty. The old man had a swollen face, and the narrator got concerned. He wanted to know what could have caused the bruises. The old man stated that the ungrateful son had hit him. The narrator concluded, â€Å"†¦ the old man must have been putting the moves on his daughter-in-law.†3 This is not only an immoral act, but also a sign of unfaithfulness on the side of the daughter-in-law towards the husband. The act is an incest. This book also presents another story about Fugui, an old poor farmer. The narrator meets him on one of the days when he is in the field collecting songs and stories. Fugui tells the narrator about his early life a nd his ‘whoring’4 character despite being married. In the book ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’, the theme of immorality and unfaithfulness is also presented in a clear conscious manner. In this book, we meet Shangguan Lu, the wife to Shangguan Fulu, who is a blacksmith. She has bent over to sweep in front of her shop. Suddenly, Pastor Malory appears from behind the church. Seeing the woman bent, he stares at her lustfully: â€Å"†¦His heart skipped a beat, his lips quivered†¦Ã¢â‚¬  and â€Å"†¦Dear Lord, he muttered, almighty God†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 5 The pastor then moves to a corner where he is able to observe Fulu’s wife better without her realizing that someone is watching her exposed thighs6 while she was sweeping. The pastor’s acts clearly demonstrate that he is longing for an intimate affair with someone’s wife. This is not only a betrayal to his religious teachings, but also betraying the faithful people who trust his lea dership and ethical views.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Comparison of East Asian Literature specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, this book demonstrates various instances where married men would walk out of their matrimonial beds and engage in immoral affairs with other women. In fact, the story shows how lust ‘for big breasts and wide hips7’ is forcing some men into illicit relationships with women who are not their wives. Disrespect in the society Respect is one of the most cherished virtues in the society, and many of the East Asian literatures have always expressed this in different ways, especially the need to respect the elderly and those in power. The two have clearly illustrated lack of respect in the society from various perspectives. In both cases, it is clearly presented that lack of respect to the elderly and those in authority comes with some consequences. The people wh o should be given honor are treated by contempt. In the book ‘To Live’, the lack of respect is demonstrated in various ways, even among little children. When the narrator gets into one village he frequented in the past, children start shouting: ‘Here comes the man who yawns quite often.’8 This is a clear lack of respect showed by these children. They must have learnt this bad habit from their parents and other senior members of the society. The old man who is hit by the son lacked respect for the son, when he made a sexual move on his son’s wife. The son also displayed disrespectful behavior by beating up the father without mercy. Fugui would dismiss the father when he tells him that his conduct is untoward. One day when the father tried to punish him for his gambling, he shoved the old man away, hurting him in the process. As a son, it would be expected that Fugui would never dare to lay his hand on the father who has been doing all he could to shap e his life for a better future. Fugue also lacks respect to the father-in-law. While ‘riding on the back of a fat whore’, he would tell the ‘whore’ to stop by the father-in-law’s shop so that he could greet the family. He continued with this disrespectful habit even after being told that the father-in-law abhorred his presence.  Same incidents can be witnessed in the book ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ on various instances. Shangguan Lu, the wife to the blacksmith Fulu, shows a lot of dishonor to her husband. She commands every activity happening in the family without giving her husband an opportunity to offer his opinion as the head of the family. â€Å"I asked you a question!† she says to the husband, â€Å"What do you gain by showing me those yellow teeth? I can’t get a fart out of you, even with a stone roller.†9Advertising Looking for research paper on comparative literature? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More A wife should not express herself to the husband in this manner, especially in front of their son and daughter-in-law. It is a clear demonstration that she does not consider her husband as a person who deserves any form of respect. Abused Marriages and Families Another common theme that comes out of the two books focuses on the abused marriages. In the two cases, we witness marriage partners engaging in abusive acts against their wives or husbands. In the book To Live, Fugui has been proven very abusive towards his pregnant wife. Despite being unfaithful to her, he would come home late at night drunk and dirty, demanding for food from her. Any form of delay or complaint would earn her beatings from the man. She respects Fugui a lot and rarely talks about his unfaithfulness or irresponsible behavior to other people. However, the husband sees this as a weakness and abuses the wife verbally and even physically at times. The same topic is presented in the book, Big Breasts and Wide Hips . Shangguan Lu is described as a women abusive to all the family members. She does not respect the husband who esteems her so much. She would dismiss him in their discussion in front of other people. She regards her husband’s opinion as being inferior to her. Lu is also abusive to other members of the society. She shows not respect to her son, her daughter-in-law, and her granddaughter. Besides the woman tells the son: â€Å"I never hear an encouraging, proper sentence from that mouth of yours, and you never tire of spouting nonsense and rumors.†10 This phrase is made in reference to a statement the son made about foreign troops that are attacking the country. The son has to keep quiet, fearing possible reactions from the mother. The latter also tells her grandchild to get married at a tender age because she is good for nothing in the family. The girl is depressed by the constant physical and emotional abuses from Lu. In addition, it turns out that Shangguan Lu is phys ically abusing her husband, which can be observed in her saying: â€Å"Women are worthless creatures†¦ so you have to beat them.†11 Upon hearing this statement, the husband asks, â€Å"Then why are you always beating me?†12 This question from Fulu demonstrates that his wife has formed a habit of beating him, and he has come to conform to this culture of abusive marriage. Christianity Another similar theme that is outlined in the two books is Christianity as a common religion in the two societies. In the book, ‘To Live’, there are several instances where characters show their faith in the Christian teachings. Jiezhen, the wife of Fugui, believes in the biblical teachings, especially the need for a wife to respect and be submissive to the husband. Although the man does not reciprocate this in his actions, she does not tire in her commitment to him. Fugui describes himself as â€Å"†¦ the prodigal son of Xu family†¦.†13 This is in refere nce to the biblical prodigal son who takes away his portion of wealth and squanders it in a foreign land. This means that he knows from the biblical teachings, that the path he has taken is wrong, but chooses to be like the prodigal son anyway. Christianity can also be traced in the book, Big Breasts and Wide Hips. As it begins, we meet Pastor Malory, who is a man of God and has been given the responsibility of carrying for the faithful in the church. He is the head of this church, and the members of this society rely on him for spiritual guidance. One of the most loyal faithful is Shangguan Lu and her family. Traditional practices and beliefs The theme of tradition is exhibited in both books in several instances. In the novel ‘To Live’, this tradition is presented through the collection of songs the narrator had, and through the story of Fugui. The songs that the persona collects reflect on the traditional Chinese culture in the olden days. The narration by Fugui also shows some traditional beliefs. When the father of Fugui realizes that the son has become lazy, he beseeches him that he is the only light in the family. He tells the son that he has to protect the legacy of the ancestors and ensure that the lineage remains as rich as it has always been in the past. This situation demonstrates a strict family pattern that exists in this country. As Hagel notes, the Chinese culture has a strong social classification within the society, and it is difficult for one to come from one social class to another.14 Once born in a royal family, a person would remain in this loyalty for the entire life, unless something abnormal takes place. This is what the father was trying to explain to his son. The same cultural practice is presented in Fulu’s family in the novel ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’. Shsngguan Fulu is a lazy blacksmith. The son Shangguan Shouxi also becomes a blacksmith like his father. Shouxi’s son is not ambitious to ach ieve higher success than that of his father, arguing that a man cannot compete against his shadow. When Shouxi’s wife dies, the mother conducts a traditional ritual that is common in the Chinese culture. This is demonstrated in the sentence that says, â€Å"Shangguan Fulu presented a bolt of white cloth to a matchmaker†¦ with a request that she approach the Yu family with a marriage proposal on behalf of her only son†¦.†15 She does this as part of her traditional responsibility as a mother to her son. The marriages are also ‘registered’ in a traditional way, with mules given out as a bride price. Social class The social class, as mentioned above, is a common factor in the Chinese traditional society. Both novels have covered this aspect adequately. In the book ‘To Live’ social classes and class differences come out in various instances. Thus, the family of Fugui is very rich. and has slaves who work for them on their large track of l and. Other servants also perform multiple tasks such as taking care of little Fugui when he has just started schooling. The poor are treated like slaves having no rights. Fugui recalls how their servants respected his father when he was just a young boy. In his early life, a slave would be sent to school to take him home every evening. He would molest the slave who never dared to refuse his unfair instructions: â€Å"†¦ After I climbed on (him), I’d hit him on the head as say, ‘Changgen, let’s go!†¦ Fly†16 This is a treatment that befits a beast of burden such as an ox, and not a human being. The book ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ also brings to focus the issues of social class in this society. Fulu’s family is on the lower social class as compared to Fugui’s clan. Being a blacksmith, Fulu can barely earn enough for the family that is considered as one of the poorest in this society, and people look down upon them. Althou gh the principles and authoritativeness of Shangguan Lu earns the family some respect, this does not change the fact that the family is considered poor. This is witnessed when Shangguan Lu is making a proposal to Xuaner’s family. Xuaner askes: â€Å"Have I raised a proper young lady just so she can marry the son of a blacksmith?†17 This question demonstrates that Fulu’s family is on the lower social ladder. Similarities in Stylistic Devices As Huang says, an author is always given power to use various stylistic devices to make the story unique and interesting.18 Some of them are shared in a number of ways. The following are some of the devices that are common in both stories. Story within a story A story within a story is one of the most popular literary devices among writers. In the book ‘To Live’, this literary tool has been majorly used to bring out most of the themes in this story. The narrator is explaining his life when he goes to the field to collect songs and stories. In this narration, he tells of how he meets a desperate old man trying to overwork his ox. Then, one could be acquainted with the story of the old man Fugui, which dominates in the better part of the book. This is the story within the story the narrator it presenting to his audience. In the book ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’, Shanggguan Lu describes a story about his life when the Japanese military forces controlled the entire region of the current China and Japan. At that particular time, the Japanese forces are ruling the region. She remembers how strong the Chinese forces were then, and how they managed to keep the Japanese forces away from this land. Use of dialogue Dialogue is one of the most common literary devices that are always very popular in novels. According to Huang, dialogue brings life into a novel, as it creates a scene in the mind of the reader as he or she relates the character to a real life scenario.19 In the book ‘To Live’, dialogue has been used extensively throughout the story. There are cases where the author uses dialogue to present the societal issues in this book. The book, ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ has also used this stylistic tool to highlight actions happening and the thoughts of the characters. Premonition One could notice that premonition is evidenced in the two novels. In both cases, it has been utilized to predict the unpleasant future. In the book ‘To Live’, Fugui’s father tells the son that he is good for nothing and is a disgrace to the family. The man tells him that it would continue with his gambling habit then his future is bleak. This happens as has been predicted by the old man in his last days. Fugui’s life became unbearable. He turns out to be one of the most desperate members of the society where his father is considered as one of the richest. In the book, ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’, Gou San would predict poss ible attack from the Japanese forces, and this comes to pass. Differences between the two Novels The two books under consideration are developed in the Chinese setting that explains why they have a lot of similarities. As Chang notes, it is common to find novels written in a same environmental setting share a number of themes and other features because of a common influence.20 However, the two books have some difference in terms of the central theme and some of the literary devices. In the book ‘To Live’, the focus is on the life of Fugui, an extremely irresponsible son of a village tycoon. He gets hold of the family wealth and wastes it in gambling. However, he realizes his mistakes, repents, and changes his wayward ways. Although this comes when it is too late to spare the family from poverty, this character appreciates that he has been responsible for the misfortunes of the family. On the other hand, ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ presents Shangguan Lu who is very abusive to the husband. Unlike Fugui, Lu does not come to appreciate that physical abuse of the husband is a mistake that she should be avoided. War with Japan (Historic Perspective) The two books discussed present the military confrontation between the Chinese and Japanese military forces. However, the books describe two different eras. In the book, ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’, the story is told when the Japanese forces were stronger. They took control of many cities in this region and the Chinese were living in constant fear of possible attacks by the Japanese. Sima Ting says: â€Å"†¦ the Japanese are on their way†¦ run, don’t trade your lives†¦.†21 The book demonstrates that in this era the Japanese forces ruled the region, which is contrary to the message brought out in the book, ‘To Live’. The second story is told when the Chinese forces have managed to subdue the Japanese forces. They recaptured some of the territ ories they lost to the Japanese, and the region was generally free from any possible Japanese attacks. In this regard, the narrator says, â€Å"The wildest time was just after the Japanese Surrender, when Nationalist troops entreated the city to recover the lost territory.†22 This shows that during this time, the Chinese forces managed to drive away the Japanese army away from the Chinese territory. So, this story is told in a different era from that of the other book. The use of the story within a story as a literary style is more extensive in the book ‘To Live’ than it is in the book ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’. Conclusion The two pieces of writing discussed in the story written by different authors share a number of common factors and contain some differences. This situation can be explained by the fact that most of the works of fiction are always based on real life experience, and when authors share some environmental factors, it is common to fin d similar and contrasting issues. The books ‘To Live’ and ‘Big Breasts and Wide Hips’ contain a number of similarities, especially in themes presented. They both talk about the Chinese culture and traditional practices. In addition, they cover some similar stylistic devices. However, it is important to note that the two novels also have clear differences in their central themes and some stylistic devices. Bibliography Chang, Kang. Women Writers of Traditional China: An Anthology of Poetry and Criticism. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1999. Eoyang, Eugene. The Transparent Eye: Reflections on Translation, Chinese Literature, and Comparative Poetics. Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 1988. Fong, Grace, Herself and Author: Gender, Agency, and Writing in Late Imperial China. Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 2008. Hegel, Robert. Reading Chinese Illustrated Fiction. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1998. Huang, Martin, Mapping Masculinity. Universit y of Hawaii Press, 2006. Huang, Martin. Desire and Fictional Narrative in Late Imperial China. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2001. Yang, Mo. Big Breasts Wide Hips: A Novel. New York: Arcade Publishers, 2004. Yu, Hua. To Live: A Novel. New York: Anchor Books, 2003. Footnotes 1 Eoyang, Eugene. The Transparent Eye: Reflections on Translation, Chinese Literature, and Comparative Poetics. Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 1988, p. 38 2 Fong, Grace, Herself and Author: Gender, Agency, and Writing in Late Imperial China. Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 2008, p. 45 3 Hua, Yu, To Live: A Novel, New York: Anchor Books, 2003, p. 3 4 Ibid p. 4 5Mo, Yang, Big Breasts Wide Hips: A Novel, New York: Arcade Publishers, 2004, p. 2. 6 Ibid p. 2 7 Ibid p. 7 8Hua, Yu, To Live: A Novel, New York: Anchor Books, 2003, p. 3 9 Ibid p. 5 10 Mo, Yang, Big Breasts Wide Hips: A Novel, New York: Arcade Publishers, 2004, p. 13. 11 Ibid p. 65 12 Ibid p. 65 13 Ibid p. 9 14 Hegel, Robert. Reading Chin ese Illustrated Fiction. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1998, p. 78 15 Mo, Yang, Big Breasts Wide Hips: A Novel, New York: Arcade Publishers, 2004, p. 117. 16 Ibid p. 81 17 Ibid p. 123 18 Huang, Martin. Desire and Fictional Narrative in Late Imperial China. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2001, p. 56 19 Ibid 20 Chang, Kang. Women Writers of Traditional China: An Anthology of Poetry and Criticism. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 1999, p. 74 21 Ibid p. 142 22 Hua, Yu, To Live: A Novel, New York: Anchor Books, 2003, p. 21 This research paper on Comparison of East Asian Literature was written and submitted by user Punisher to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Analysis of Riordans Manufacturing IT Systems

Analysis of Riordans Manufacturing IT Systems Free Online Research Papers I. History: Riordan Manufacturing, Inc. is an industry leader in the field of plastic injection molding. With state-of-the art design capabilities, they create innovative plastic designs that have earned international acclaim. Attention to detail, extreme precision and enthusiastic quality control are the hallmarks of Riordan Manufacturing. Connected via a Wide Area Network (WAN) it maintains facilities in Albany, Georgia, Pontiac, Michigan, and Hang Zhou, China. The companys research and development is done at the corporate headquarters in San Jose, Ca. Riordans major customers are automotive parts manufacturers, aircraft manufacturers, the Department of Defense, beverage makers and bottlers, and appliance manufacturers. II. Assessment: In order to stay competitive in a constantly changing business environment, Riordan needs to remain current with the latest technology, recent industry developments, and attend to the service requirements of its customers. According to Riordan’s CIO and other staff members, Riordan’s telecommunication and data networking systems necessitate upgrading to better support the company’s recent and future growth needs. Team A began its investigation by gathering information about the existing network system. Based on the diagrams provided, we completed an inventory of the existing hardware and evaluated the security protocols for the wide area network (WAN) and local area network (LAN) connections in each location. The current networking model in place is a server-based (client/server) design. Each locality dedicates hardware (servers) for handling the application requests from the workstations. All locations support more than 10 users. (Greg, Tittel, Johnson, 2004) In examining the networking schematics, we found that the diagrams and the logical designs were out dated; these were not consistent with the actual physical implementations. The current network consists of aging and outdated technology and devices; such as, hubs, Cat3 cabling, Windows 98 workstations and NT Servers. Two of the four facilities are not employing firewalls on the networks and two sites had firewalls placed in fron t of their routers. An additional drawback is that the bandwidth is limited between locations. Limited information was obtainable regarding the port, router configurations, and security software. The current infrastructures implemented were designed with a unique approach. However, there are some basic resemblances between current designs in place at the San Jose and Hangzhou locations, only minor alterations are required for the specific needs of the individual locations. In addition, the network designs at the Albany and Pontiac locations also bare some similarities with one another. Even so, there appears to be a basic need for the local area networks (LAN) to mirror one another and standardize the network configurations within the WAN. In further review of the San Jose and Hangzhou locations, it appears that these networks follow the Bus and Ring topology principals with two WAN connections. Each network patterned on a 100 base T Ethernet backbone with an edge router for data transmission to and from the other locations and external sources on a full T1 line. The number of users supported in each location is between 35 and 50 users, per site. The workstations connect to the network via 24 port Cisco 5950 switches running on 100 base T Ethernet lines. In addition, each location is running the following servers: basic Windows NT network/domain Network and Exchange servers, UNIX based ERP/MRP servers, and NAS file storage servers. However, there is only a single UPS (Uninterruptible power supply) backup device in each location to support the entire site in the event of power loss. Each location also contains a satellite connection that serves as a back up for these locations in the event that the primary T1 line is u navailable. The current network design extends to connect to a 1 GB Ethernet based backbone that supports 15 additional users running on an unknown MAC platform with its own Windows network server. In reviewing the designs for the Pontiac and Albany locations these networks, appear to be modeled on the Star Bus topology principals with 1 WAN connection. Each network is daisy-chained to comprise the backbone. Ethernet cables connect multiple Nortel Baystack routing devices (Pontiac uses 10 Base T lines with hubs and Albany uses 100 Base T lines with switches). Each was using a single edge router for passing data between locations via a fractional T1 line. Missing security devices and inadequate routing protocols for communications protect the WAN from intrusion. There are no provisions for diverse traffic routing; overall network reliability is at risk. Another major concern is the lack of secure remote access or VPN (virtual private network) to aide with security for the network. III. SCOPE: The Purpose of this paper is to provide Riordan’s national and international manufacturing plants a common arrangement of system and plant security controls. It is the aim of Team A, to provide recommendations that apply equally across Riordan’s information network. The primary business objective is to enable seamless compatibly between all facilities. Our first initiative is to standardize network configurations, hardware components, and software applications. This will improve data integrity and availability throughout the entire organization. Encompassed within this plan is the deployment of security protocols and policies that will safeguard both the network and ensures accessibility for Riordan’s customers and employees. IV. Recommendations: Based on Team A’s evaluation, it was determined that the current network infrastructure is in desperate need of a complete overhaul. All four locations should mirror one another and the network configurations standardized. We have charted proposed logical designs (page 8) for the upgraded networks at each location to demonstrate the topology and identify the required components. This modeling process will assist management to better understand the possibilities of the new system. The following list is an overview of the recommended changes for the network upgrades: Protocol Recommendations: TCP/IP – LAN Routing and transport protocol, which holds the entire network together. SNMP – Network management protocol for managing the network infrastructure. FTP – file transfer protocol for WAN/LAN wide file transfers. DNS – Domain naming system for network name resolution. MPLS/RSVP for routing protocols TCP/IP is flexible enough for use in both LAN and WAN environments and it provides a rich set of services and utilities for the Windows platform. The usefulness of TCP/IP is broad, because of its routable, scalable and ability to build very large hierarchical networks. TCP/IP facilitates communications at different layers of the OSI model. Many of the protocols include TCP/IP and are standards based with worldwide acceptance. The disadvantage of using the TCP/IP configuration that TCP/IP is more complicated than NetBIOS or IPX/SPX. In comparison to NetBEUI, TCP/IP employs a larger header that encapsulates the data. This also slows down the transmission of the packet. FTP, SNMP, and DNS have all suffered historically from insecurity issues and compromises; however, these protocols have matured over the years and are available with encryption algorithms. Because of the existing TCP/IP infrastructure, it should be relatively simple to build upon the existing network. (Kozierok, 2005) MPLS is a dynamic routing protocol the utilization of it will aide in switching the traffic flow during a power outage. MPLS is a tag switching protocol, Video IGMP joins are accommodated as well as the SIP traffic for Voice. MPLS also supports QOS, meaning priority routing is enabled for voice and video. By building an MPLS core network and enabling diverse services to traverse the core network, IT personnel are able to streamline the operations and administration of their network and enable effective utilization of the regional core network. This will support such emerging services as Layer 3/2 VPNs, VPLS and Point-to-Multipoint commercial service. (Juniper, ND) One of its known disadvantages is the interoperability between vendors on configuration parameters. This can interfere with link down status and halt traffic flow. 1. Topology: The basic network design or topology in all locations need restructured to support the company’s plans for future growth. Currently Riordan Manufacturing employs a WAN topology commonly referred to as a Hub-and-Spoke configuration (Star topology). The Main office is the Hub of the network with the remote offices creating the Spokes of the network. Presently, each remote site is utilizing a fractional T-1 back to the main office. The only exception is a satellite link from the China office. Each location routes its internet traffic back to the main office for browsing connectivity. Although the star topology is the most widely used topology in networks that contain more than just a few computers (Greg, Tittel, Johnson, 2004), it lacks the amount of bandwidth needed for the company’s plans for efficiency. Also there are no provisions for diverse traffic routing which affects the reliability of the overall network. However utilizing the current topology will be cost effective and upgrading the digital circuits will cause minimal interruption within the current configuration. Our recommendation is to switch to a partial mesh topology. Our primary concern is the cost of satellite space and because additional equipment is very expensive and could place the company into discord. The China location does have an internet connection and accessing the main office via this link should activate when the satellite connection fails. Increasing the bandwidth over the satellite will improve their throughput for backups and database updates. 2. Hardware: a. Switches: China has two, 24-port switches that connects the inter office LAN to the rest of the network. A gateway switch connects and translates communication between the LAN to the satellite connection to the HQ. The China network would benefit from replacing the three, 24-port hubs that connect the factory floor to the network with three, 24-port switches. Pontiac does not employ switches. This site is connected with hubs and patch panels. The Pontiac network could benefit from replacing the 4 hubs and 3 patch panels with four, 24-port switches for network segregation, and to alleviate network congestion and create Virtual LANs. Albany has three, 24-port switches and a patch panel. This network has enough switches to accommodate the network segregation to support creating VLANs. Corporate headquarters in San Jose has two, 24-port switches that connect the inter-office network. Two gateway switches connect and translate communications between the LAN and the Satellite and between the RD LAN and the inter-office LAN. Corporate headquarters could benefit from replacing the 24-port hub with a 24-port switch. In all the networks, replacing the hubs with switches will help to alleviate possible network congestion caused by the hubs rebroadcasting the signal to every device on the network. These changes will provide more bandwidth per channel to accommodate more VoIP phones and other expansion if needed in the future. In addition, the new switches will segregate the single larger networks into smaller Virtual LANs, which will further alleviate network traffic. A disadvantage to replacing the hubs with switches is that switches will cost a little more than hubs. b. Security: The corporate headquarters network in San Jose has 2 WAN connections. The first one is a T1 wired connection protected by an unknown firewall. The second connection is a satellite link to China with no security devices noted. The Albany, GA. network has 1 WAN connection to corporate headquarters. This connection is a fractional T1 with a 256k circuit for email and 1.5Mbps for burst. The WAN is not protected by any type of network security device or protocol. The Hanghzou, China network has two WAN connections. The first one is a T1 connection protected by an unknown firewall. The second connection is a satellite link to corporate headquarters in San Jose no security devices noted. The Pontiac, MI. network has 1 WAN connection to corporate headquarters. This connection is a fractional T1 with a 256k circuit for email and 1.5Mbps for burst. To secure the network a firewall solution will be implemented at all four locations. The firewall, a Cisco 525 PIX, will reside between the Cisco routers and the primary Cisco switch on the T1, E1, and satellite connections. This will ensure that all possible entrances to the network are secured. The Cisco 525 PIX firewall incorporates â€Å"multi-vector attack protection services† for further protection, from many forms of attacks, such as, â€Å"denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, fragmented attacks, replay attacks, and malformed packet attacks.† It uses a variety of advanced protection features, such as, â€Å"TCP stream reassembly, traffic normalization, DNSGuard, FloodGuard, FragGuard, MailGuard, IPVerify, and TCP intercept and provides real-time alerts to administrators.† â€Å"Administrators can also easily create custom security policies using the flexible access control technologies provided by Cisco PIX Security Appliances, including network and service object groups, user and group-based policies, and more than 100 predefined applications and protocols.† â€Å"Cisco PIX 525 Security Appliance models have integrated hardware VPN acceleration, delivering highly scalable, high-performance VPN services. (Cisco, 2008) To aide with network security, virtual private network VPN client software will be installed on all workstations and usage will be necessary to access resources located across the network. VPNs provide the highest level of security using advanced encryption and authentication protocols that protect data from unauthorized access. VPNs enable you to create secure, business-critical communication links over the Internet Give telecommuters and mobile workers secure access to your LAN. VPNs are also able to connect two computers over long distances yielding substantial savings over dedicated leased line options. V. Diagrams Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 VI. Conclusion: In conclusion, Team A analyzed each of the Local Area Networks of Riordan Manufacturing to develop a proposal to upgrade the Wide Area Network of Riordan Manufacturing. The proposed improvements would increase the bandwidth, which would facilitate improved data and voice communications among all of the plants, headquarters and their customers. In addition, to providing faster, more reliable telecommunications with increased throughput, the proposed upgrades will provide Riordan Manufacturing with new communication protocols that will improve security and encryption to facilitate Virtual Private Networks and other secure remote computing capabilities. Finally, the improved network would provide increased customer access for sales and support by providing more high speed and reliable access to the Riordan’s web site as well as providing high quality, reliable telephone connections. References: Kozierok, Charles (2005). The TCP/IP Guide, Retrieved March 15, 2008 From tcpipguide.com/ Juniper (ND) Leveraging MPLS to Enable Deterministic Services in the Cable Core, Retrieved March 13, 2008, From: juniper.net/solutions/literature/white_papers/200228.pdf Shinoda, Yoichi. (2002). The MPLS advantages. Retrieved March 16, 2007 From soi.wide.ad.jp/class/20010022/slides/02/47.html Greg, T. Tittel, E. Johnson, G. (2004) Guide to networking essentials [Electric version] Course Technology; Ch 2 14 pp 71-528; Retrieved from University of Phoenix eResource website, Aug. 26, 2007 Research Papers on Analysis of Riordan's Manufacturing IT SystemsRiordan Manufacturing Production PlanThe Project Managment Office SystemOpen Architechture a white paperBionic Assembly System: A New Concept of SelfAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in CapitalTwilight of the UAWDefinition of Export QuotasMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug Use

Workplace Drug Testing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Workplace Drug Testing - Essay Example Erstwhile US President Mr. Ronald Reagan stressed on workplace drug testing so as to maintain employee productivity and drug free workplace. (Infantry.army.mil) Many governments across the world have initiated ‘attack on drug use’ instead of ‘attack on drug supply’ as the latter was not providing any better results. It has found that many organizations have implemented this measure to enhance the profitability of the workforce, cut down absenteeism, safety of the workers, reduce the costs on healthcare management and maintain drug free environment at the workplace. Most of the employers have the freedom to deny or reduce workers’ compensation payments, if illicit substance use is found to be proximate cause of employer’s injury. Legitimate or important interests are required to justify the drug testing. The workplace drug testing is aimed at safety of the employee and others, organization efficiency, reputation risk, employee welfare, etc. Various organizations in various countries in order to reduce the demand for illicit drugs, protecting health and promoting safety of workers and co-workers, public safety and efficiency, economy and honesty of the workers towards organization, have taken such measures of employee drug testing. It can also be justified as the measure to minimize damages caused due to accidents at workplace and on roads. (Drug Testing and Privacy, 1990) However, if any employee makes a plea against workplace drug testing, it is more likely to be dismissed. Drug testing can be justified on the basis that it is been done for the safety of an individual, the public and society at large Workplace drug testing is a sensitive issue as it arises due to collision between workers’ and employers interests. (ILO, Geneva, 2003) There are several types of testing method, all of which are controversial, but random testing method has always been the centre of argument. Drug testing may raise

The Last Mountain Movie (Mountain top removal) Essay

The Last Mountain Movie (Mountain top removal) - Essay Example The process results in both air and water pollution, which is not just local but also has the potential to spread across states. Huge amounts of coal sludge is generated, which when spilled, pollute local rivers. Local wells and springs are contaminated with heavy metals. Moreover, freshwater fish from water bodies around such locations are unsafe for consumption due to the risk of mercury poising. The process also damages the homes of local residents by causing floods as the natural drains such as waterways and streams have been buried in the process. The process also results in the depletion of forest cover, which would have otherwise existed on the mountains. The use of explosives for blasting the mountain tops leaves behind vast amounts of toxic wastes, and the resultant rubble along with silica dust or fly ash often finds its way into people’s homes as the wastes are dumped down the valley. Thus, the ecological balance and safety of the local environment is affected in a very adverse way. The local people have been affected in terms of both health and economy. The pollution caused during the process of mountain top removal and coal mining results in innumerable adverse effects on human health. Common health complications include brain damage, breathing disorders and cancers. As pointed out in Bill Haney’s The Last Mountain, every year in the US, emissions from the coal plants result in more than 10 million cases of asthma, 600,000 cases of brain damage in newborn children, apart from 43,000 premature deaths. Brain tumors and autism are common in such localities. The homes of the local residents undergo destruction because of flooding and rubble dumped into the valley. A large number of people lose their jobs due to increasing mechanization of coal mining. As big coal companies have replaced manual labor and jobs with machines, the number of local jobs has been brought down significantly.

The Great Gatsby in the American Dream Essay Example for Free

The Great Gatsby in the American Dream Essay The 1920s and 1930s represent two decades in our countrys history that were very much connected to one another but extremely different in the economy. The Great Gatsby takes place during the roaring 20s, a time of extravagant parties and attempts at finding happiness after World War I. On the other hand, The Grapes of Wrath takes place during the 30s while America is suffering from the Great Depression and people are leaving their homes and lives to find success and work in California. Although the times were very different economically, both were taken over by people striving for the American Dream of wealth and social status in an attempt of getting happiness, success, and a better life. During the 20s, people wanted to escape the terrors of the war and during the 30s they were attempting to survive during the devastation of the Great Depression. Both The Great Gatsby and The Grapes of Wrath do an amazing job of representing peoples desires for the American Dream and more specifically the failure rather than success that came as a result of their efforts. The American Dream depicted by The Grapes of Wrath is very different from the dream of the 20s and The Great Gatsby. For one, money and wealth is much scarcer and extravagant parties are far from peoples minds. In The Grapes of Wrath there is a very distinct line between the rich and the poor and this separation increases as those who are rich go to all lengths to ensure that they remain in the upper class. Many of the upper class seem to live in California where there is land and opportunity, while much of the lower class consists of dust-bowl farmers who have been forced to leave their land and travel to California in search of work. The land owners in California are afraid that these dust-bowl farmers will eventually take over their property and make it their own, so they are doing everything in their power to ensure that the poor farmers are not successful. Even still, they hire them for their dirty work and treat them poorly as there are many more to take their place. Many of the poor farmers begin turning their backs on their families and friends in an attempt at succeeding as individuals. This selfish attitude is the same attitude held by the California land owners who are unwilling to share their fortune with anyone else due to fear and lack of trust. The Grapes of Wrath builds up several different dreams for the American depending on their background. The California land owners dreams consist of eagerness for wealth and greed to remain in a position of power over the dust bowl farmers that are working their land. On the other hand, many of the poor farmers have simple dreams of just keeping their dignity and not allowing themselves to give up on their families. In the end, it is the Joad familys ability to keep their dignity and hold together as a family that helps them to rise above all of the tragedies they encounter. The Grapes of Wrath concludes with a much more hopeful tone than The Great Gatsby and passes on to the reader the importance of men joining together and doing what is right for all of mankind as opposed to what is most beneficial to the individual. Jim Casys death in Chapter 26 is a perfect example of how the California land owners are threatened by the idea of the poor farmers joining together and revolting. His death is also an example of how a man or woman can make an unselfish decision and risk what is best for them individually to do what is best for all of mankind. Tom is very struck by Casys bravery and finds the power within himself to follow in Casys footsteps and help unite people to fight the injustices of their current situation. His own dream becomes an attempt to do all he can to better life for the common American man. The American Dream was not only different in the 20s than it was in the 30s, but it has continued to evolve and change up through today. Despite the differences in these dreams, there is a central goal to all of them: the pursuit of happiness. In both of these books and much of the world today, people seek and dream of attaining just utter happiness. For centuries, lots of people have been trying to obtain money, careers, success, and more. Although these dreams are separate from one another, they are all just a means by which people feel they may hopefully obtain their dream of being happy. The question is when will people begin to realize that it is not these materialistic goals that will provide them with happiness, but rather things like humility, love, family, and religion? These are true sources of happiness and real answers to the American Dream.

Governmental Abuse in America :: Politics Political Essays

Governmental Abuse in America The U. S. government has been expanding its influence on the personal lives of American residents for many years, particularly during the twentieth century. This growth has disabled people's abilities to take care of themselves and their loved ones, and ruined their chances at personal growth and development. Once a vehicle solely for the preservation of a free and peaceful society, the U. S. government has distorted our country into a nightmare police state. The short-term beneficiaries of continued and expanded lawful encroachment are only the government officials themselves and the criminal underground who gain more power with every newly prohibited good in their black market economy. The primary cause of this governmental abuse is the collective will of the people. The vast majority of individuals refuse to allow other people to act in ways that are foreign to them. One set of laws that has destroyed many people's lives is the asset forfeiture system. These laws are in place as a consequence of the government's drug policy, where inflated profits can be made as the illegality of the product limits supply. "Police stopped 49-year-old Ethel Hylton at Houston's Hobby Airport and told her she was under arrest because a drug dog had scratched at her luggage. Agents searched her bags and strip-searched her, but they found no drugs. They did find $39,110 in cash, money she had received from an insurance settlement and her life savings; accumulated through over 20 years of work as a hotel housekeeper and hospital janitor. Ethel Hylton completely documented where she got the money and was never charged with a crime. But the police kept her money anyway." (Wollstein) Another government practice that has caused many people considerable duress is racial profiling. The main reason this practice isn't condemned to the point of prosecuting enough officers to discourage its use is that the people who are hurt by it are not like them. The victims of these attacks are thought to be alien, somehow related to the actual criminal element and probably deserving anyway. When people think of themselves being negatively affected by a police procedure they take an interest in actually preventing these things from happening. "Philadelphia Common Pleas Court Judge Rayford Means got lost three years ago, driving through Pennsylvania's Chester County. A policeman pulled over his car and asked why he was in the area.

Contemporary strategy analysis Essay

2001-2011 was filled with many black swan events (i. e. events that are extremely rare, have a major impact and are unpredicted even if they are rationalised retrospectively) e. g. Sep 11 attack, Lehman Brother collapse, Greece/Iceland bailouts, Arab Spring revolutions, major earthquakes and tsunamis) Rise of BRIC countries creating a multipolar world 2. Sluggish Economic Growth + Increased Competition Economic growth in advanced economies sluggish throughout the medium term governments and household sectors are over-leveraged insufficient productive investment from companies sitting on cash excess capacity in most sectors -> resulting in strong price competition Internationalisation of companies from emerging-market countries e. g. contract manufacturers (OEM) in China and India competing with their customers in final markets. 3. Technology Disruption Digital technology disrupting incumbents (e. g. Netflix replacing Blockbuster) and redrawing industry barriers (e. g. Apple, Nokia, Nintendo, Blackberry now competing in same mobile device market) 4. Social Pressure and Crisis of Capitalism Loss of social legitimacy of companies as a result of a fall-out from the 2008/9 financial crisis – disdain for companies (hypocrisy + greed of bankers, traders, etc) and their leaders (e. g. Occupy Wall Street movement) Rise of alternative forms of business enterprise as better, more sustainable models over limited liability companies – e. g. state-owned firms (China, Brazil) and cooperatives (i. e. businesses mutually owned by consumers or employees). Challenge faced by companies of whether to unilaterally create/stick to its own values (which may become out of step) or reflect the current values and attitudes of society it operates within. Item 2: New Directions in Strategic Thinking 1. Re-orientate Corporate Objectives of Companies Reconcile the need for profit maximisation with a broader societal role (i. e. companies having greater social and environmental responsibilities) Move away from focusing on stock market valuation alone – Management should not focus on profits but what strategic factors that drive profits or create value e. g. customer satisfaction, innovation Best antidote to corporate empire building and CEO hubris is a stronger emphasis on basic principles of strategy analysis. 2. Seeking More Complex Sources of Competitive Advantage Competitive advantages in today’s dynamic world is difficult to sustain due to high rate of technology diffusion + increased competition from emerging market companies who are more cost-effective Developing multiple layers of competitive advantage is now required (e. g. as shown from companies that maintained profitability and market share for years (e. g. Toyota, Wal-Mart), combined with the ability to combine multiple capabilities. 3. Managing Options The portfolio of options of a company e. g. growth options, abandonment options, and flexibility options are increasingly important as sources of value. Therefore option thinking should be adopted into a firm’s strategy: e. g. industry attractiveness should not depend on profit potential, but option potential (e. g. an industry that produces a no of different products, comprises multiple segments, has many strategic groups, utilises a wide variety of alternative technologies) e. g. a resource is attractive if it can be deployed in different businesses and support alternative strategies (e. g. nanotechnology). Dynamic capabilities are important because they generate new options. 4. Understanding Strategic Fit Importance of fitting the strategy of the firm with the firm’s business environment and its resources and capabilities. 2 major concepts regarding linkages within companies: complementarity and complexity Complementarity: the importance of linkages among a firm’s management practices and finding the optimal configuration (e. g. a six-sigma quality program needs to be accompanied by changes in incentives, recruitment policies, product strategy, etc) Complexity: the idea that companies are complex systems whose behaviour results from interaction of a large number of independent agents. This results in unpredictability, self-organisation by a company and a company positioning between inertia, chaos, and evolutionary adaptation Common to both concepts is the contextuality of linkages: Do the benefits from any particular activity depend on which other activities take place? 2 dimensions of this contextuality: contextuality of activities (are management activities and their benefits dependent or independent of each other? ); contextuality of interactions (do activities interact in similar ways across firms) Item 3: Redesigning organisations The challenge of today’s business environment is reconciling multiple dilemmas (e. g. product at low cost, but also innovate), requiring multi-dexterity. Companies are now multi-dimensional structures with organisational capabilities for each business area e. g. quality management processes, social and environmental responsibility, knowledge management, innovation and exploration, etc. 1. Solution to Complexity – Making Organisations Informal, Self-Organising and Permeable Informal Organisation: Rely upon informal rather than formal structures and systems e.g. team-based structures which rely on coordination rather than control. Companies are moving towards project based organisations – temporary cross-functional teams charged with clear objectives (as opposed to permanent functions and continuous operations). Such teams are more able to achieve innovation, adaptability and rapid learning than more traditional structures and avoids issues of over-concentration of power and rigid, inflexible structures (e. g. W. L. Gore, supplier of Gore-Tex boots). This is an example of a consensus-based hierarchy, which emphasises horizontal communication, over an authority-based hierarchy, which emphasises vertical communication. Self-Organisation: Humans (and therefore, companies) have a capacity for self-organisation. Three factors are conductive for self-organisation: identity, information and relationships. Identity is a shared cognition of what the organisation is (what is core, distinctive, and enduring about the character of the company) and an emotional attachment towards what it represents. A strong consensus of identity provides a powerful basis for coordinated action that permits flexibility and responsibility to be reconciled with continuity and stability. Information and communication networks within companies support spontaneous patterns of complex coordination with little or no hierarchal direction Relationships, or informal social networks, allow information to be created and transformed and allows the organisation’s identity to expand and include more stakeholders. The more access people have to one another, the more possibilities there are. 2. Breaking Down Corporate Boundaries There are limits to the range of capabilities that companies can develop internally. Therefore, companies must collaborate in order to access the capabilities of other companies e. g. strategic alliances. Today’s web-based technologies permit much wider networks of collaboration (e. g. use of ICT technologies by P&G and IBM to draw upon ideas and expertise across the globe or the rise of open-source communities that build highly complex products such as Linux). Item 4: Changing Role of Managers The changing conditions and types of organisations require new approaches to management and leadership. Previous era of restructuring and shareholder focus associated with change masters (highly visible, individualistic and often hard-driving management styles e. g. Michael Eisner of Disney, Rupert Murdoch) â€Å"Buck-stop here† peak decision-making role of CEOs may no longer be feasible or desirable for the current era. Instead, it is the role of guiding organisational evolution that is more important nowadays (being a social architect by creating an environment where every employee has the chance to collaborate, innovate and excel). CEOs should be less concerned about decision-making and more concerned about cultivating identity and purpose. Senior managers also require different knowledge and skills nowadays – e. g. self-awareness, self -management, social awareness (empathy) and social skills – i. e. emotional intelligence. They should move away from being administrators and controllers and become entrepreneurs, coaches and team leaders instead. In particular, Rapid evolution requires a combination of both incremental improvement and stimulating radical change (e.g. Sam Palmisano at IBM) Establishing simple rules: the idea that companies can be managed by a few simple rules (boundary rules and â€Å"how-to† rules) with limited managerial direction otherwise (e. g. Cisco) Managing adaptive tension: Create a level of tension that optimises the pace of organisational change and innovation. This is done through imposing demanding performance targets, but ensuring targets are appropriate and ac hievable.