SAP APPEAL Free Essays

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Implementation of Enterprise Systems †Free Samples to Students

Question: Discuss about the Implementation of Enterprise Systems. Answer: Introduction Chris and Richard's Legal support (CRLS)is family-owned law firm located in Sydney, Australia. CRLS provides free legal support and advice for the local community and has extended its services to cities including Melbourne and Brisbane. To be able to satisfy their clients, CRLS has a total of about 50 volunteers in their 3 branches including 30 attorneys and about 18 administrators. Currently, CRLS uses a manual system to record office transactions. The manual system has resulted to major problems challenges with book keeping and updating. Files get lost or can easily be misplaced. It also leads to a bulky storage of manual files. The manual system is time consuming since it takes long to retrieve customer details. Theres a los a lot of mismatched data since the files are not uniformly updated. Theres also a lot of data redundancy and inconsistencies. Therefore, the firm would like to adopt computer technology and implement an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The computerized system will streamline all the firms records and help generate reports in time (Velcu, 2007). CRLS current business processes Abusiness processis a set of linked activities that find their end in the provision of a product or service to customers (AppianGuide, 2017).Business processes are set up together to help accomplish organizational goals. The procedures should involve clearly put and defined inputs and data outputs. Data inputs include all the factors that contribute to adding value to business products or services either directly or indirectly. Such factors can be characterized into administration processes, operating processes and all procedures that support business processes. The production process is dependent on administrators and attorneys who have offered their services to CRLS clients. It is possible for lawyers to confuse the cases they are handling in case of mix-ups and management cannot easily tell which lawyer offered which service. Marketing: CRLS does not have a clear marketing strategy and procedures as the clients they serve have been solely gotten by referrals from old clients. Finance: CRLS depends on donations from local donors. Systems and technology: CRLS uses a manual information system to record cases and communicate which has a lot of challenges such data and information inconsistency. Communication: The firm solely depends on administrators for any communication between clients and attorneys offering law advice and support. Theres therefore no clear communication procedures. Proposed changes to the business processes For efficiency and effectiveness, CRLS need to computerize its business processes. This will ensure organized and systematic ways of executing its production, marketing, personnel management, financial management, communication, and managing functions. The proposed business process include the systems and technology procedure. This is because changing this one procedure will touch on and improve all the other processes including administration, production, finance, marketing and advertising. Using technology will transform all these procedures. Technology provides great impacts when it comes to a business modernizing its processes for improved business productivity and especially in implementing law firms. Functional practice areas have been reported to have changed radically as a result of adopting technology in law systems including in digital documents production using word processing software, bookkeeping, timekeeping, deadline tracking, financial management and planning; clients filing details, information, conflict checking personal practice organization and case super vision; virtual research and obtaining access to government facilities including amalgamations and title hunts; lawsuit support and expressive evidences in court have been transformed by technology. It is no doubt then that technology will transform every business process in CRLS for increased business productivity. The ERP system stands for enterprise resource planning. It is essentially an information system that integrates diverse subsystems into one system(Almgren Christian, 2014). CRLS has three major subsystems including human resources; finance and production (Hasselbring, 2000). An ERP will combine these systems into one so that they can share uniformly updated data. ERP systems are meant to increase effectiveness and efficiency for organizations (McGaughey Gunasekaran, 2007). Traditional ERP systems usually referred back-office systems are exclusively used by company employees and are not meant for the general public or customers. They involve the core business processes of an organization organizations minus the customers(Al- Mashari Al-Ghofaili, 2014). Their main goal is improving efficiency (McGaughey Gunasekaran, 2007). Traditional ERP systems do not fully maximize business processes. However, the modern ERP system has already deal with the challenges of traditional ERPs such as back office systems and now includes the front office processes including customers (Jacobs, 2007). They include customers to better accommodate customers issues with regard to organization operations and therefore improve business productivity (Jacobs, 2007). It is therefore, important for businesses such as CRLS to implement modern ERP systems that fully cover all business stakeholders including current and potential clients. An example of a modern ERP system is a cloud based ERP system. Adopting a cloud based ERP system for CRLS A cloud - based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is software that is accessed via the Internet. Usually, cloud based ERP systems are implemented through cloud computing technology- a technology that takes place over the internet and provides computing services including software and infrastructure (Elmonem, et al., 2016). An ERP system is considered as a cloud-based when it influenced by the characteristic of cloud computing. The cloud based ERP system should be accessed via the user browser over the internet without installing or configuring the system at the user side (Elmonem, et al., 2016). A cloud based system will transform all the business processes at CRLS. The rightcloud ERP software for CRLS will help the firm streamline all its business functions including administration, finance, marketing, communication and Information Technology (IT) (Yoon, 2009). CLRS will then be able to reduce firm expenses, and will be able to improve business operations. According to (Elmonem, et al., 2016), a cloud based ERP system has the capability to offer CRLS with the following benefits: Reduced upfront costs: enterprises are not required to pay for ERP development, they only pay for accessing the ERP via the internet. Low operating costs: Cloud providers are responsible for providing and operating ERP cloud services Quick ERP execution: ERP providers offer a wide range of ERP solutions, which can then be rapidly installed after a business makes a selection Scalability and updates: Cloud services can be extended whenever a business requires extra modules to match its business requirements Concentration on business core capabilities: Cloud ERP systems allow business to focus on their central functions and therefore manage their business more professionally Implementing cutting-edge technology: accessing the cloud for work procedures allows businesses to use specialized technology and advanced computing resources ERP updates and upgrades: since they are hosted on the Internet cloud based ERP updates and upgrades are quicker unlike with traditional ERP applications Value-added convenience, flexibility, and usability for business employees: cloud based ERP allow company staff to work from anywhere as long as they can access the system through the Internet Stress-free integration with cloud services: There are lots of software to help with cloud ERP integration procedures for business operations Improved system availability and backup plans: ERP system providers provide policies and procedures to allow data recovery and backup, information restore, and any other functions concerned disaster recovery policies Transparency of costs : businesses are able to see their subscription models before committing to ERP implementation Improved security procedures: ERP providers install security modules for such systems to ensure business information is not accessed by unauthorized persons Free software trials: cloud ERP providers allow potential clients try the workings of the ERP systems before procuring them Challenges of adopting a cloud based ERP for CRLS Adopting a cloud based ERP can also be challenging although the advantages overweigh the disadvantages. According to (Elmonem, et al., 2016), if CRLS adopts a cloud based ERP system, it may face some of the following challenges: Subscription costs: To be able to use a cloud based ERP, an organization is required to pay monthly subscription expenses as long as it uses ERP services. Security threats: Due to the fact that a cloud based ERP is accessed via the Internet, it could suffer malicious activities that occur online Performance risks: Network failures and other connection issues can affect ERP access since it can only be accessed via a network through the Internet affecting performance. ERP Customization challenges: ERP systems require to be customized with business procedures and in the process of doing so can suffer integration problems unlike with traditional ERP systems. Additional contract costs: Cloud ERP systems implementation may come with extra costs for organizations including maintenance, transition and monitoring costs Reduced technical know-how: IT employees can lose their technical expertise after organizations they work in implements cloud ERP systems Startup support: organizations often require additional support To from cloud ERP providers to simplify its operation for a period of time Organizational challenges: Implementing cloud ERP systems may disrupt an organizations entire operations including poor communication procedures Risks associated with BPR and ERP customization Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) refers to the study and planning of business processes and workflows in an organization (Rouse, 2014). Implementing ERP systems usually require the analysis and redesign of business process (Fryling, 2014). Customizing an ERP to business process is challenging as some processes may fail to match with the ERP in question(Hong, et al., 2016). Some major risks involved with customization of BPR and ERP according to (Jeff, 2015) include the following: Cost increases - modifying ERP to match business processes may require skills from ERP experts which will be costly for the business. Difficult maintenance and upgrades customizing CRLS business processes with an ERP can be difficult to implement and maintain. System insecurities and vulnerabilities adopting software use via the Internet creates a lot of system vulnerabilities from hackers who intrude systems to manipulate and steal information. Feasibility analysis A feasibility analysis is an investigation of how effectively a project plan in an organization can be accomplished with regards to factors that can affect it such as financial, technological, scheduling and legal issues (Investopedia, 2017). A feasibility is commonly done to test the practicability of a project or idea (Mukund, 2017). An ERPfeasibility study is therefore an investigation of a business approach in terms of a chosen ERP system (Datix, 2015). ERP system implementation feasibility study usually occurs before the commencement and installation of ERP systemproject, and majorly checks the fitting and integration of an ERP system with business processes (Salvaggio, 2005). It allows the selected project committee to perform a SWOT analysis inside the organization to determine whether or not to continue with the proposed project implementation. The committee then decides determine if the project is worthy of investment, or the business needs to consider an alternative project solution (Samehara, 2017). In the case of CRLS, it is important for the firm to perform a feasibility analysis. Its outcome will be that CRLS will be able to know whether implementing an ERP is necessary for the organization bearing in mind its services and objectives. The analysis will also tell the organization where they can pull of an ERP implementation in terms of available resources and human resource availability (Nah, et al., 2001)and whether the ERP system is a viable project or they should consider another alternative. Conclusion There are many modern technological developments including cloud computing and ERP systems. Such technologies have the capability to transform the way we work and do business. Currently, many business organizations internationally have already adopted ERP implementation to improve their business operations. They have adopted change management procedures that come about to improve business operations to help them improve efficiency (Aladwani, 2001) Organizations that have embraced technological advances have registered enormous benefits and increased business productivity. Recommendation The researcher recommends CRLS to implement a cloud based ERP because of the benefits discussed in this report. Implementing a cloud based ERP means that the law firm will be adopting technology to perform its business operations. If a successful ERP implementation is done, CRLS will be able to integrate all their business processes. All data and information across its operations from management, administration, marketing, finance and production will be uniformly updated. In turn, the business will be able to generate timely reports whenever they need to. In addition, a cloud based ERP will help the company to grow in terms of attorneys offering legal advice and support to clients. Implementing a cloud based ERP will also increase CRLS organization future sustainability. References Al- Mashari, M. Al-Ghofaili, A., 2014. ERP system adoption traditional ERP systems vs. cloud-based ERP systems. IEEE. Aladwani, A. M., 2001. Change management strategies. Business Process, 7(3), pp. 266-275. Almgren, K. Christian, B., 2014. ASEE.ORG. [Online] Available at: https://www.asee.org/documents/zones/zone1/2014/Student/PDFs/6.pdf [Accessed 28 August 2017]. AppianGuide, 2017. Appian. [Online] Available at: https://www.appian.com/bpm/definition-of-a-business-process/ [Accessed 28 August 2017]. Datix, 2015. ERP Feasibility Study. [Online] Available at: https://blog.datixinc.com/blog/erp-feasibility-study [Accessed 29 August 2017]. Elmonem, M., Nasr, E. Geith, M., 2016. Benefits and challenges of cloud ERP systems A systematic literature review. Future Computing Informatics Journal, 1(1-2), pp. 1-9. Fryling, M., 2014. ERP Customization vs. Business Process. [Online] Available at: https://proc.conisar.org/2014/pdf/3316.pdf [Accessed 28 August 2017]. Hasselbring, W., 2000. Information system Integration. Communications of the ACM, 43(6), pp. 32-38. Hong, S.-G., Siau, K. Kim, J.-W., 2016. The impact of ISP, BPR, and customization on ERP performance in manufacturing SMEs of Korea. Emerald Sight, 10(1). Investopedia, 2017. Feasibility Study. [Online] Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/feasibility-study.asp [Accessed 29 August 2017]. Jacobs, R., 2007. Enterprise resource planning(ERP). Journal of Operations, 25(2), pp. 357-363. Jeff, 2015. Risks Associated with ERP Implementations: Customization. [Online] Available at: https://www.meritsolutions.com/business-insights/risks-associated-with-erp-implementations-customization/ [Accessed 28 August 2017]. McGaughey, R. E. Gunasekaran, A., 2007. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Past, Present and Future. Issue 3 ed. s.l.:Hershey PA. Mukund, 2017. Feasibility Study An Important aspect of Project Management. [Online] Available at: https://www.simplilearn.com/feasibility-study-article [Accessed 30 August 2017]. Nah, F. F.-H., Lau, J. L.-S. Kuang, J., 2001. Critical factors for successful implementation of enterprise systems.. Business Process management, 7(3), pp. 285-296. Rouse, M., 2014. business process reengineering (BPR). [Online] Available at: https://searchcio.techtarget.com/definition/business-process-reengineering [Accessed 28 August 2017]. Salvaggio, T. . A., 2005. Enterprise Resource Planning. [Online] Available at: https://www.doa.state.wi.us/Documents/DET/RFO/RFO%20EXE13-03%20Attachment%20B_ERP%20Feasibility%20Study%202005.pdf [Accessed 29 August 2017]. Samehara, 2017. Feasibility Study of SAP ERP. [Online] Available at: https://www.samehara.com/en/services/Feasibility-Study-of-SAP-ERP/33/view/ [Accessed 29 August 2017]. Velcu, O., 2007. Exploring the effects of ERP systems on organizational performance: evidence from Finnish Companies. Industrial Management Data Systems, 107(9), pp. 1326-1334. Yoon, C., 2009. The effects of organizational. Computers in Human Behavior citizenship behaviors on ERP system success, 25(2), pp. 421-428.

Improvement Of Motor Skills In Physically Handicapped Children After I

Improvement Of Motor Skills In Physically Handicapped Children After Inclusion Motor abilities can be defined as innate and enduring. Motor skills, however, can be learned and developed through repetition. Combining a number of motor abilities develops these motor skills, and with practice these skills become perfected. In children, these skills are unfamiliar at first, but once used in everyday and recreational activities, they become ordinary and effortless. However, some children are born with less developed motor abilities, and some skills never become natural and effortless; these individuals are characterized as physically handicapped. The result of combining these lower-level abilities creates an inferior level of motor skills in physically handicapped children. Therefore these children will never be at quite the same level as those children with normal motor abilities. For this reason, some handicapped children are not able to participate at the same level of physical activity as their peers. Kasser, Collier, and Solava (1997) address the consequences of this lack of involvement: ?The resultant inactivity negatively affects developing children in many ways, especially their physical health? (p. 50). Kasser, et al. (1997) suggests inclusion as a solution to this issue, and mentions the positive effect that including disabled children in physical education classes has on the children's value in the eyes of their peers. In these cases when handicapped students are involved in activity classes, specialists become involved in helping the student improve their motor development. In most of these cases, the physical educator and a physical therapist work together to improve gross motor performance and fitness (Kasser, et al., 1997). The physical educator helps build upon the child's social, emotional, and motor development and brings the know-how in the area of effective teaching. On the other hand, the physical therapist focuses on the child's functional motor skills. The physical therapist also has an understanding of functional and age appropriate sport activities that will motivate the individual to take an active role in improving his or her own motor skills (Kasser, et al., 1997). This will also enhance the handicapped child's self-esteem, as well as their gross motor skills, when they see that they are participating in the classes along with their peers. In a study done by Block and Vogler (1995) on including handicapped children in physical education classes, the issue of self-concept and motivation was addressed. This study stated ?self-concept and motor performance were favorably enhanced in inclusive settings for both children with mild and moderate disabilities? (p. 41). Kasser, et al. (1997) also recognizes this, but adds that the rate of learning in handicapped individuals compared to typical students is much lower, and therefore must be considered when establishing the number of skills that are taught in that class or period of time. As an older sibling of a handicapped child, I have seen the results of what both these articles discuss. Block and Vogler (1995) discuss the concept of having the handicapped child work on a more fundamental skill as the rest of the class participates in the actual sport itself: students with varying abilities can all be accommodated in the same physical education setting? (p. 42). My younger sister was often involved in physical education classes with the rest of her peers in high school, and as they played five-on-five basketball (closed movement) she worked on dribbling and catching the ball (open movements). This is an example of establishing a sport specific motor skill. By combining fundamental movement skills, handicapped students (especially at the middle and high school level) learn sport skills and acquire the benefits associated with acquiring motor skills. There are three main benefits that are tied to these sport specific skills. The first of these benefits is the idea of motivation. By learning a socially valued and usable skill, handicapped students feel there is more purpose to what they are learning (Kasser, et al., 1997; Block and Vogler, 1995). For example, the educator and therapist could have the student using a computer program that helps them develop reaction time. An alternative would be involving the handicapped individual by teaching them in the gym with the rest of the children, allowing them to improve their reaction time via a specific sport skill. Although both of these examples don't take the

Scallop Facts

Scallop Facts Found in saltwater environments like the Atlantic Ocean, scallops are bivalved mollusks that can be found around the world. Unlike their relative the oyster, scallops are free-swimming mollusks that live inside a hinged shell. What most people recognize as a scallop is actually the creatures adductor muscle, which it uses to open and close its shell in order to propel itself through the water. There are more than 400 species of scallops; all are members of the Pectinidae family. Fast Facts: Scallops Scientific Name: PectinidaeCommon Name(s): Scallop, escallop,  fan shell,  or  comb shellBasic Animal Group:  InvertebrateSize: 1–6 inch valves (width of shell)Weight: Varies depending on speciesLifespan: Up to 20 yearsDiet:  OmnivoreHabitat:  Shallow marine habitats around the worldConservation  Status:  Varies depending on species Description Scallops are in the phylum Mollusca, a group of animals that also includes snails, sea slugs, octopuses, squid, clams, mussels, and oysters. Scallops are one of a group of mollusks known as  bivalves. These animals have two hinged shells that are formed of calcium carbonate. Scallops have anywhere from 50 to 100 eyes that line their  mantle. These eyes may be a brilliant blue color, and they allow the scallop to detect light, dark, and motion. They use their retinas to focus light, a job the cornea does in human eyes. Atlantic sea scallops can have very large shells, up to 9 inches in length. Bay scallops are smaller, growing to about 4 inches. The gender of Atlantic sea scallops can be distinguished. The females reproductive organs are red while the males are white. Bobby Ware/Getty Images   Habitat and Range Scallops are found in saltwater environments worldwide, ranging from the intertidal zone to the deep sea. Most prefer beds of seagrass amid shallow sandy bottoms, although some attach themselves to rocks or other substrates. In the United States, two kinds of scallops are sold as food. Atlantic sea scallops, the larger kind, are harvested wild from the Canadian border to the mid-Atlantic and are found in shallow open waters. Smaller bay scallops are found in estuaries and bays from New Jersey to Florida. There are large scallop populations in the Sea of Japan, off the Pacific coast from Peru to Chile, and near Ireland and New Zealand. The majority of farmed scallops are from China. Diet Scallops eat by filtering small organisms such as krill, algae, and larvae from the water they inhabit. As water enters the scallop, mucus traps plankton in the water, and then cilia move the food into the scallops mouth.   DEA PICTURE LIBRARY/De Agostini Picture Library/Getty Images Behavior Unlike other bivalves such as mussels and clams, most scallops are free-swimming. They swim by clapping their shells quickly using their  highly developed adductor muscle, forcing a jet of water past the shell hinge, propelling the scallop forward. Theyre surprisingly speedy. Scallops swim by opening and closing their shells using their powerful adductor muscle. This muscle is the round, fleshy scallop that anyone who eats seafood will instantly recognize. The adductor muscle varies in color from white to beige. The Atlantic sea scallops adductor muscle may be as big as 2 inches in diameter. Reproduction Many scallops are hermaphrodites, which means that they have both male and female sex organs. Others are only male or female. Scallops reproduce by spawning, which is when organisms release eggs and sperm into the water. Once an egg is fertilized, the young scallop is planktonic before settling to the sea floor, attaching to an object with byssal threads. Most scallop species lose this byssus as they grow and become free-swimming.​ Conservation Status There are hundreds of species of scallops; in general, they are not endangered. In fact, according to NOAA: U.S. wild-caught Atlantic sea scallop is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations. Bivalves such as scallops, however, are threatened by  ocean acidification, which affects the ability of these organisms to build strong shells. Species Scallops are marine  bivalve  mollusks of the family Pectinidae; the best-known are species  of the  genus  Pecten. The family Pectinidae includes about 50 genera and subgenera and more than 400 species which live around the world. Scallop species vary in their habitats; while some prefer coastal areas and intertidal zones, others live deep under the ocean. All scallops are bivalves, and in most species, the two valves of the shell are fan-shaped. The two valves may be ribbed or smooth or even knobbed. Scallop shells vary radically in color; some are white while others are purple, orange, red, or yellow. Scallops and Humans Scallop shells are easily recognized and have been a symbol since  ancient times. The fan-shaped shells have deep ridges, and two angular protrusions called auricles, one on either side of the shells hinge. Scallop shells range in color from drab and gray  to vivid and multihued. Scallop shells are an emblem of St. James, who was a  fisherman in Galilea before becoming an apostle. James is said to be buried at Santiago de Compostela in Spain, which became a shrine and pilgrimage site. Scallop shells mark the road to Santiago, and pilgrims often wear or carry scallop shells. The scallop shell is also the corporate symbol for the petrochemical giant Royal Dutch Shell. Scallops are also a major commercially harvested seafood; certain species (Placopecten magellanicus, Aequipecten irradians, and A. opercularis) are highly prized. The large adductor muscle is the part of the scallop that is typically cooked and eaten. Scallops are harvested around the world; the most productive scallop grounds are off the coast of Massachusetts and in the Bay of Fundy off the coast of Canada. Romona Robbins Photography/Getty Images   Sources Foster, Kelli. Whats the Difference Between Bay Scallops and Sea Scallops? TheKitchn.com.  13 May 2016.  Goff, Stanley. What Do Sea Scallops Eat Where Do They Live?​  Ã¢â‚¬â€¹Sciencing.com.  Ã¢â‚¬â€¹25 April 2017.Madrigal, Alexis C. Did You Know Scallops Have *Eyes*? Me Neither, but Look. TheAtlantic.com. 28 March 2013.Ramos, Juan. What Exactly Are Scallops? ScienceTrends.com. 17 Jan. 2018.

Answering the given questions Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Answering the given questions - Assignment Example Venezuela mainly adopted capital controls so as to protect its domestic economy from the volatile or unpredictable capital movements. The sole aim of doing so was to allow full domestic employment and maximizing of social welfare, saving of foreign exchange  and keeping both international and domestic finances under the national control. Generally, the motivations at the back capital controls often ranged from the rising revenues, buying time for managing a speculative aggression, and the international monetary transformation.   On the other hand, controls were adopted in Venezuela due to its provision of a substitute for insufficient solvency supervision regarding banks and all the other financial firms, reduction of the amount of unstable temporary foreign credits with regards to the prevailing economy, and the aspect of limitation with regards to international financier’s power (Knight & Satchell, 2007).   From the Venezuela’s case, there can be a cognitive distinction between the black and gray market. Black market is often not a physical region or place, but is rather a fiscal activity whereby goods and/or services are transacted illegally. On the other hand, gray market refers to a commodity trade through the distribution channels in which, as much as they can be legal, they are unofficial, unintended, or unauthorized by the primary manufacturer (Knight & Satchell, 2007).  The Santiago’s financial analysis is based on its choices and can be summarized in a simple manner. The entire financial mishap was due to the attempt of trying to meet the U.S Dollar obligation. This was after a transaction that saw the disbursement of $30000 worth products from a U.S based vendor to a specific customer who went to the extent of reselling it. He then opted for a dollar exchange through a gray market whereby there was an involvement in a deposit of up to 20%. This deal was hence s ealed after two business days. The un-official gray market

Compare and contrast Stopping by woods on a snowny evening & The Road Essay

Compare and contrast Stopping by woods on a snowny evening & The Road Not Taken - Essay Example The woods, although beautiful and serene, represent a dark and lonely place away from society and responsibilities. This isolation is tempting and seems to offer peace and quiet but is something no one would want or advise. For example, even the owner of these woods is away in his village on this â€Å"darkest evening of the year† (8). The village symbolizes society and civilization and is separate from this lonely, isolated spot so that even the owner won’t know that this visitor was here. In â€Å"The Road Not Taken†, the narrator comes across a fork in the road and is presented with two choices. Both are seemingly the same and there is no sure way to choose the right one, â€Å"the passing there/ Had worn them really about the same† (9-10). What matters most is that a choice has to be made. The narrator does, however, spend a lot of time judging his decision (Fagan 295). For example, he looks down one path and analyzes it as best he can, â€Å"long I stood /And looked down one as far as I could/ To where it bent in the undergrowth† (3-5). Also, the narrator realizes that any choice he makes will lead him to other choices and he won’t be able to come back to the first one. In both poems, Frost uses nature imagery to symbolize the journey of life. For example, in â€Å"Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening†, the woods represent a place and choice away from society, free from any obligations. Similarly, in the â€Å"The Road Not Taken†, the two paths in the woods are symbolic of life’s critical choices and decisions that one has to make (Fagan 295). Also, the imagery of grass represents the people that have already traveled down that particular path. Both poems also allude to the fact that both narrators have a long way to go and that their journey does not stop at these woods or cross roads of life. For example, in â€Å"The Road

Research Design Location And Research Time Psychology Essay

Research Design Location And Research Time Psychology Essay This chapter will present the methodological approach and research technique used in this thesis along with how the data will be gathered to find the answer or solutions of the research questions and problems, such as research design, theoretical perspective, data collection method, data analysis method as well as the validity and reliability of the data. Research Design, Location, and Research Time This research was planned and designed to obtain answer to research questions. Research design is the framework or plan for study, used as a single guide to collect and analyze the data. It is the blueprint that is followed to complete a study. According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 24), a research method or approach/design gives details on the most suitable methods of investigating the nature of the research, instruments, the sampling plan and the type of data to be used. Furthermore, Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 24) also report that a research method or design forms the framework of the entire research process. Therefore, if it is a good method or design, it will thus ensure that the information obtained is important to the researchers problem and those objectives and economic procedures in collecting it are all within limits. It simply is a systematic quest for undiscovered truth. In pursuit of this undiscovered truth, a researcher needs facts, published documents from primary sources and secondary sources. This research was using a cross sectional study which the data are gathered just once (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 119). Research location was done at six locations: Central Jakarta, North Jakarta, South Jakarta, West Jakarta, East Jakarta and Tangerang city to household customers of PT. Perusahaan Listrik Negara between March to July 2012, with the distribution of questionnaires within June 2012. Research Framework The research framework of this thesis is shown in Figure 3.1 below. The first research step is to define the research problem, followed by research objective. The third step is a literature review, followed by data collection, data analysis, hypothesis test, and finally generate conclusion and recommendation. Source: Author Figure 3.: Research Framework Research Questions and Hypotheses In this study, researcher would like to answer the questions and analyze the hypotheses below: RQ1: How do cultural factors, social factors, personal factors, psychological factors, and PLN services influence customer decision in using electricity at peak load hours? H1: From those factors, all factors are positively influence customer decision in using electricity at peak load hours. RQ2: How is the correlation between the decisions in using electricity during peak load hours with the household customers behavior towards saving electricity? H2: There is a correlation between the decisions in using electricity during peak load hours with the household customers behavior towards saving electricity. RQ3: How do pro-social intensions, motivations, access to information, and knowledge influence customer behavior in saving electricity? H3: From those factors, all factors are significantly influence customer behavior in saving electricity. RQ4: How is the correlation between customer awareness of consequences, aspiration of responsibility, personal norms towards their pro-social intensions in saving electricity? H4: There is STRONG correlation between customer awareness of consequences, aspiration of responsibility, personal norms towards their pro-social intensions in saving electricity? RQ5: What interventions or instruments are most likely to affect households saving electricity behavior? H5: The intervention or instrument most likely to affect households saving electricity behavior is by increasing their motivation, knowledge, and access to information about saving electricity programs. RQ6: From the classification of household segments, which class is the most involved in saving electricity? H6: From the classification of household segments, class R1:2.200VA is the most involved in saving electricity. Conceptual Framework Source: Author (Adapted from Kotler, 1999, and deGroot Steg, 2009) Figure 3.: Conceptual Framework Research Data Type and Source of Data There are two types of data that researches collected depending on the purpose. The data of research consists of both primary and secondary data. The primary data are the first-hand information acquired by the researcher on the variables under study while the secondary data refer to information gathered from sources that already exist which may come from archives or organizational files (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 180). This research was used both primary and secondary data. The primary data sources were obtained through the survey method by distributing structured questionnaires to household customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya and Tangerang Distribution. The secondary data were obtained from the company internal data such as figures in customer-base segmentation, and existing data in books, journals, publications, reports, and websites. Data Collection Method The data collection for primary and secondary data is done through the following methods: Literature Review. According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 38), a literature review is a step-by-step process that involves the identification of published and unpublished work from secondary data sources on the topic of interest, the evaluation of this work in relation to the problem. In this research, the literature review is done by search and study books, reports, journals, research reports, internet website related to electricity business and customer behavior. The information related to the company is obtained through the companys website and published reports. Questionnaire. Sekaran and Bougie (2009, p. 197) define questionnaire is a pre-formulated recorded series of questions to which the respondents giving their answers usually within rather closely defined alternatives. For this research, the questionnaire is formulated and distributed to the respondents in two methods. First method used is by distributing the questionnaire to respondents through email. The second method is the direct questionnaire to respondents, by asking them to give their answer on the questionnaire paper provided. Questionnaire Design Questionnaires are efficient data collection method when the researcher knows the information to gather and how to determine the variables of interest (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 197). Questionnaire survey is formulated to answer the research questions. It is a tool that may be conveniently distributed personally or electronically to respondent. According to Burns and Bush (2006, p. 300), there are six key functions of a questionnaire: To translate the research objectives into specific questions. To standardize the questions and the response categories to let every participant responds to identical stimuli. To reinforce cooperation and motivates respondents to respond. To serve as permanent records of the research. To speed up the process of data analysis, depending on the type of questionnaire used by the researcher. To contain the data which may be addressed for reliability and validity. The first part consists of the demographic attributes questions such as gender, age, education, occupation, annual income, and the second part consists of questions analyzing customer behavior in terms of cultural, social, personal, and psychological factors that base on Griffin and Eberts model (2006, p. 283). Part two in the questionnaires use Likerts scale which enables the respondents to give level of the attributes stated in the questions. A Likerts scale was used in the research, in which respondents were asked to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement on a systematic agree-disagree scale for each of a series of questions (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 281). Each question in the questionnaire on this part is ranged from 1 to 5, where 1 = Strongly Disagree; 2 = Disagree ; 3 = Neutral or Not Applicable ; 4 = Agree ; 5 = Strong Agree. The questionnaire format for this research is shown in Figure 3.3 below. Source: Author Figure 3.: Questionnaire Design for This Research Table 3.1 shows the distribution of items in order to measure the variables in the questionnaires. Table 3.: Variable, Scale of Data and Category of Questions Part 1: Respondent Profile No. Variables Scale of Data Category of Questions 1. Gender Nominal Male Female 2. Age Interval 20-30 years old 30-40 years old 40-50 years old 50-60 years old à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 60 years old 3. Occupation Nominal Government employee Private company employee Self-employed Professionals Retired Others 4. Number of Family Members Interval Small: à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 4 members Medium: 5-6 members Big: à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 7 members 5. Educational background Ordinal Basic / Junior High School Senior High School College Degree Bachelor Degree Master Degree PhD 6. Income per month Ratio à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 2 million rupiahs 2 to 5 million rupiahs 5 to 10 million rupiahs à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 10 million rupiahs 7. Classification electricity Nominal 900 VA 1.300 VA 2.200 VA 8. Domicile Area Central Jakarta West Jakarta East Jakarta South Jakarta North Jakarta Tangerang City Part 2: Exploratory Questions (Data are in Likert scale) Customer Decision in using electricity at peak load hours No. Variables Category of Questions A. Cultural Factors Regularly using electricity at peak load hours (between 17.00 to 20.00). Household activities were dominated by using electrical equipment. Regularly using electrical equipment in day time. B. Social Factors The capacity of installed electricity is in accordance with the requirement. Able to pay if electricity tariff is go up. Electricity tariffs are still cheap. Its normal to reduce electricity subsidized and to increase tariffs when oil prices are up. C. Personal Factors Able to pay electricity and can afford the electricity bills. It is necessary to increase capacity because the need of electricity will increase. Electricity bills are relatively small compare to the total expenditure. D. Psychological Factor When using electricity at peak time, we will pay more expensive. Feeling guilty when using electricity at peak time. Feeling happy if every rooms are bright. E. PLN Services Power failure was rarely, so it is convenient to use it, especially at peak time. Recording of electricity is on time and the bill is in accordance with the use. Since electricity is stable, we are not worry to use it at peak time. Part 2: Exploratory Questions (Data are in Likert scale) Customer behavior towards saving electricity No. Variables Category of Questions A. Access to Information Get information about saving electricity from friends, family, neighbor, PLN, or community leaders. Get information about saving electricity from television, radio, magazine/newspaper, and internet. Often receiving information about saving electricity. B. Knowledge Knows electricity-saving equipment. Electrical equipment will be more efficient when turned off than in standby. Using electrical equipment at its maximum capacity will take more energy. C. Motivation Being motivated to prioritize electricity saving behavior. Being motivated to respect environment. D. Pro-social Intensions There are negative consequences of any actions that do not respect the environment. Feel responsible for environmental damage. Having a moral obligation towards energy efficiency and environmental protection. Questionnaire Format In this research, the questionnaires were prepared in printed and online formats using Indonesian language, because some of the respondents were not able to read and speak in English language. During the pre-test stage, the questionnaire was distributed only through email to 30 respondents to find out the validity and reliability of the data or questions in the questionnaires. At the post-test stage, the revised questionnaire was printed and distributed door to door. Due to time limitation, researcher employed a strategy by setting up a team consist of 6 (six) members to meet the respondents in 6 (six) different locations (domiciles). The revised questionnaire was also distributed by email. By using email, it was very convenient in terms of shortening the time spent to send the questionnaire and receiving the responses from the respondents. However, there were difficulties because the respondents were depended on a computer and internet service. Survey Sampling Method According to Sekaran and Bougie (2009, pp. 262-263), a sample is a subset of the population. It comprises some members selected from it. A sample is thus a subgroup of the population, which represents the whole group of people, actions, or things of interest that the researcher wants to investigate. According to Burns and Bush (2006, pp. 372-374), the size of the sample affect the sample accuracy of results, thus sample accuracy refers to how close a random samples statistic is to the populations value it represents. The most correct method of determining sample size is confidence interval approach. In order to calculate the proper sample size of the survey, Burns and Bush (2006, p. 366) said, there are three items required: Amount of variability of population Desired accuracy, and Required confidence level. Sampling Methodology In this research, the population is the total number of customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya and Tangerang Distribution from the Household segment, which according to the statistics are 3.330.815 number of customers. For this amount of population, the sample size may be calculated using the formula recommended by Burns and Bush (2006, p. 372): Where: n = the sample size z = standard error associated with the chosen level of confidence (1.96) p = estimated percentage in the population q = 100- p e = acceptable sample error Sample population sample size = population sample size x In this research, researcher chose to use a probability of 90% with a 95% level of significance equivalent to a z value of 1.96 and sample error 4%. The sampling calculation was determined by using a software application, PHStat2. PHStat2 is a Windows-based software that assists students and professionals in learning the statistic concepts while using Microsoft Excel. Table 3.: Sampling Size Determination Data Estimate of True Proportion 0.9 Sampling Error 0.04 Confidence Level 95% Intermediate Calculations Z Value -1.95996398 Calculated Sample Size 216.0820587 Result Sample Size Needed 217 Finite Populations Population Size 3.330.815 Calculated Sample Size 216.0681064 Sample Size Needed 217 Source : Data on File Based on the calculation in Table 3.2, the minimum number of sample size needed is 217 samples; however in this research the number of samples is added to another 10 percent in order to produce greater accuracy. Therefore, this research will be used 240 samples. This research will use a cross sectional-study in which the data are gathered at once in order to answer the research questions (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 119). Sample Withdrawal Techniques The populations in this research were household customers of PT. PLN Jakarta Raya Tangerang Distribution. Sampling technique was done by using stratified random sampling, involves a process of stratification or segregation, followed by random selection of subjects from each stratum. The population is divided into stratum, and then sampling conducted in each stratum (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 272). In this research, customers who become household population were stratified based on electrical power and is divided into three groups, namely: 900VA, 1.300VA and 2.200VA. It is based on the Regulation of the President of Republic Indonesia No. 8, 2011, p. 9 (see Appendix A2). The sample selection techniques are described in Figure 3.4. Source: Author Figure 3.: Sample Withdrawal Techniques Data Analysis After data are obtained through questionnaires, the next step is to analyze them to test the research hypothesis. To ensure that the data obtained are reasonably good and ready for use for statistical analysis, Sekaran and Bougie (2009, pp. 306-330) recommend followings: Getting the data to be ready for analysis: Coding and data entry Coding the responses Data entry Editing data Data transformation Getting a feel for the data: Relationship between variables Correlations Testing goodness of data Reliability Validity Testing the hypothesis Hypothesis testing and data analysis will be conducted using appropriate statistical method and based on sample data associated with software such as PHStat2, SPSS version 20, and AMOS version 20. Descriptive Analysis Descriptive analysis such as the mean, mode, standard deviation, and range are used by researcher to describe the sample data matrix in such a way as to portray the typical respondent and to reveal the general pattern of responses. Descriptive measures are regarded as the steps undertaken by the researcher earlier in the process of analysis and become foundations for subsequent or more complex analysis (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 424). Descriptive statistics were used to portray the main characteristics of a collection of data in quantitative terms and distinguished from inductive statistics in that they intend to quantitatively review a data set, instead of being used to support reports regarding the population that the data are supposed to represent. Even when a data analysis obtains its major conclusions using inductive statistical analysis, the descriptive statistics are usually presented alongside the formal analyses to show the audience an overall perception of how data being examined. Validity and Reliability Test A good quality measurement instrument is needed in order to obtain precise data of this research. The ideal instrument has to be reliable and valid. The researcher must address both validity and reliability of the measures in assessing the degree of measurement error present in any measures. Any measure designed or adapted for use in any research should both be reliable and valid. A reliable measure is one in which a respondent acts in response to the same or a very similar manner to an identical or nearly identical question (Burns Bush, 2006, p. 290). The reliability of a measure is a test of how consistently a measuring instrument measures whatever concept it is measuring. In testing the reliability of the questionnaire, the test-retest reliability test was used which measures the correlation between the same respondents obtained at the two different times (Sekaran, 2010, p. 162). To achieve reliability of a measure, the researcher was using SPSS software with Cronbachs Alpha as the measurement. Cronbachs Alpha is a reliability coefficient that determines how well specific items of the measurement tools are positively correlated to one another. Cronbachs Alpha is computed using the average intercorrelations among the items measuring the concepts. If Cronbachs Alpha is greater than 0.70, it means that the data are more consistent and reliable. The closer the alpha value to 1 indicates the data are most consistent and reliable. A high quality reliable instrument can be used as a guide to draw a conclusion and making decisions (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, pp. 324-325). Validity is a test of how fine a developed instrument to measure the particular concept it is planned to measure. In the other words, validity is related to measurement with the right concept and reliability with stability and consistency of measurement (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, pp. 158-160). Correlation Analysis Correlation analysis is an analysis done to trace the mutual influence of variables on one another. A correlation coefficient that indicates the strength and direction of the relationship can be computed by applying a formula. There could be a perfect positive correlation between two variables, which is represented by 1.0 (plus 1), or a perfect negative correlation which would be -1.0 (minus 1) (Sekaran Bougie, 2009, p. 322). The formula to calculate the coefficient of correlation is: Source: Burns Bush, 2005 Where: r = coefficient correlation n = samples xi = variable X x = mean X yi = variable Y y = mean Y Table 3.3 presents the rules of thumb in interpreting the correlation coefficient values. Table 3.: Rules of thumb of degree of correlation Coefficient Range Strength of Association  ±0.81 to  ±1.00 Strong  ±0.61 to  ±0.80 Moderate  ±0.41 to  ±0.60 Weak  ±0.21 to  ±0.40 Very Weak  ±0.01 to  ±0.20 None Source: Burns Bush, 2005 Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a statistical approach for testing and estimating causal relationship using a combination of statistical data and qualitative causal assumptions. Typically, this theory represents causal processes that produce examinations on multiple variables. The term structural equation modeling expresses two important features of the procedure: causal processes, represented by a sequences of structural (i.e. regression) equations, and these structural relationships can be displayed pictorially to allow a clearer conceptualization of the theory. Then, the hypothesized model can be examined statistically in a simultaneous analysis of the entire variables to conclude the degree of its consistency to the data. If goodness-of-fit is adequate, the model argues for the credibility of hypothesized relations among variables. If it is inadequate, the reasonability of those relations is rejected (Byrne, 2010, p. 3). Statistical models provide an efficient and convenient way of describing the latent structure underlying a set of observed variables. Expressed either diagrammatically or mathematically via a set of equations, such models explain how the observed and latent variables are related to one another. Typically, a researcher postulates a statistical model based on his or her knowledge of the related theory, on empirical research in the area of study, or on some combination of both. Once the model is specified, the researcher then tests its plausibility based on sample data that comprise all observed variables in the model. The primary task in this model-testing procedure is to determine the goodness-of-fit between the hypothesized model and the sample data. As such, the researcher imposes the structure of the hypothesized model of the sample data, and then tests how well the observed data fit this restricted structure. Because it is highly unlikely that a perfect fit will exist between the observed data and the hypothesized model, there will necessarily be a differential between the two; this differential is termed the residual. The model-fitting process can therefore be summarized as follows: Data = Model + Residual Where: Data represent score measurements related to the observed variables as derived from persons comprising the sample. Model represents the hypothesized structure linking the observed variables to the latent variables and, in some models, linking particular latent variables to one another. Residual represents the discrepancy between the hypothesized model and the observed data (Byrne, 2010, p. 7). Structural equation models are schematically portrayed using particular configurations of four geometric symbols: a circle (or ellipse), a square (or rectangle), a single-headed arrow, and a double-headed arrow. By convention, circles (or ellipses; ) represent unobserved latent factors, squares (or rectangles; ) represent observed variables, single-headed arrows (à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢) represent the impact of one variable on another, and double-headed arrows (à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬ ) represent covariance or correlations between pairs of variables (Byrne, 2010, p. 9). In building a model of a particular structure in this research, the researcher uses these symbols within the framework of four basic configurations, each of which represents an important component in the analytic process. These configurations, each accompanied by a brief description, are as follows: Path coefficient for regression of an observed variable onto an unobserved latent variable (or factor) Path coefficient for regression of one factor onto another factor Measurement error associated with an observed variable Residual error in the prediction of an unobserved factor The Path Diagram Schematic representations of models are termed path diagrams because they provide a visual portrayal of relations which are assumed to hold among the variables under study. Essentially, a path diagram depicting a particular SEM model is actually the graphical equivalent of its mathematical representation whereby a set of equations relates dependent variables to their explanatory variables (Byrne, 2010, p. 10). Using path diagram as a structural equation modeling tool, the pattern of causal relationship can be detected. Causal relationship describes interrelations among a set of latent (unobserved) variables and a set of observed variables. Path diagram is a relationship structure between the exogenous and endogenous variables. The independent (X) variables are called exogenous variables. The dependent (Y) variables are called endogenous variables. Model Measurement According to Hair et.al (2010) measurement model validity depends on establishing acceptable levels of goodness of fit (GOF) for the measurement which indicates how well specify model reproduces the observed covariance matrices, smaller the difference between covariance matrices estimate with the observe covariance matrices, more fit the model. (Hair et. al, 2010, p.639). The GOF value contains several parameters to be considered by the researcher as stated by Hair et.al (2010, p.640-650), this thesis confirm the overall model fit the parameter will used the following: Chi-square (CMIN) or minimum discrepancy (), it is to test whether there is the different covariance matrices estimate within the covariance matrices observe, smaller () shown the different of both not significant and the model more fit. df (degree of freedom), more positive (>=0) of the df which shown with minimum was achieved the process of the estimate could be done. CMIN/DF. CMIN represents the minimum value of the discrepancy while DF is the degree of freedom. According to Wijaya (2009, p. 45), the model could be accepted if the CMIN/DF is à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¤ 2.00. RMR (root mean square residual), this is called badness of fit whether the value is less than 0.1 than it is better because deference between sample and the estimate is smaller (Hair et.al 2010, p.642) GFI and AGFI (Goodness fit index and Adjusted Goodness fit index), GFI and AGFI value between 0 to 1, more closed to 1 more fit the model (Hair et.al 2010, p.643)