Thursday, March 19, 2020
Court Observation Essay Example
Court Observation Essay Example Court Observation Essay Court Observation Essay Court observation The courts have the function of giving the public a chance to present themselves whether to prosecute or defend themselves if any disputes against them rises. It is known to everyone that a court is a place where disputes can be settled while using the right and proper procedures. The court is also the place where a just, fair and unbiased trial can be heard so that it would not cause any disadvantage to either of the party involved in the dispute. The parties are given a chance to represent themselves or to choose to have a legal representative ,which is mostly preferred by many. In the Session Court that I attended, the physical appearance of the court is similar to other courts. The judge sits in the centre and in the presence of everyone at the front. The Interpreter sits in front of the judge with the Bar Table placed directly in front of the interpreter. On the right hand side of the Bar Table is the Witness box and the defendant sits directly at the back of Bar Table. A police officer is placed on the left side of the defendant to guard the public and those present in the court. There is a divider between where the public sits with those involved with the legal proceedings. Everyone entering the courtroom will have to bow the judge as a sign of respect to the judge before they proceed to their respective seats. The role of the interpreter is to make sure the witness reads the oath before testifying in the case. In the case that I attended, both the plaintiff and defendant were represented by their respective lawyers. As I only had the opportunity to witness the defendantââ¬â¢s lawyer to prove his version of the case, as to call witness and asking questions. I felt that he wasnââ¬â¢t effective when presenting his case as he fumbled with his words a lot and was not questions most of time to the defendant. This shows that the counsel is unable to present himself well enough to communicate his facts to the witnesses. I also felt that counsel has not done a good job and would very unlikely be able to catch the attention of the judge. In Malaysia Judiciary System, the Adversarial System is practiced, where the two parties involved in the dispute I given the chance to present and prove their version of facts and disprove the version of the other side. Am impartial judge listens to the evidence and makes a decision as to which side is guilty. In this case will determine the question of fact where else the jury determines the questions of fact. However, the Adversarial System in Malaysia is practiced without a jury due to constraints and other disadvantages of empanelling juries. Thus, in this system, the judge role is to determine the Questions of Law as well as the Questions of Facts. He or she is also to ensure that the Rules Of THE case without interruption unless she is asked questions by the counsels. I unfortunately only had a little time to witness the proceedings, so I only got to see the calling witnesses to present evidence according to the Rules of Evidence. So far, the type of evidence produce is not hearsay evidence but direct oral evidence where the witness told the court what he saw. The lawyers and the judge then record the evidence presented. The proceedings of the hearing were formal where the Rules of Procedures is carried out. The judge is to ensure the existence of theses rules in every hearing. Silence is to be kept in the courtroom and the public is not supposed to speak and hand phones are to also be switched off to avoid any disruption in the court room.. Everybody attending before the judge is required to now to the judge when he or she walks in or out if the court as a sign of respect. The judge is addressed as Yang Arif in the Sessions court and the lawyers and the judge have to follow the dress code of wearing black and white during the court proceeding. In my opinion,the court did quite well in dealing fairly and equally with all that came before it. The defendant was givien the chance to be represented by his lawyer and the plaintiff was given the chance to be represented by its lawyer as well. The lawyer did their duty to try to prove their versions of facts and try to disprove the opposing party in order to won the case. The lawyers were given the chance to cross-examine witness who is called by the respective lawyers.
Tuesday, March 3, 2020
What You Can Learn From Einstein and His Failures [Infographic]
What You Can Learn From Einstein and His Failures [Infographic] Life doesnââ¬â¢t always go as smoothly as you plan. And while it sometimes may seem youââ¬â¢re the only one who struggles, thatââ¬â¢s far from the truth. People in powerful positions with successful lives and oodles of respect are not always born as golden children with the smarts, savvy, wealth, and instinct to be on top. Take the one and only Albert Einstein- the founder of relativity, everyoneââ¬â¢s go-to example of a bona fide genius. His journey to leaving an indelible mark on the world was far from smooth and easy!Follow the path of his life below (as seen on LifeHack) to see the twists and turns it took (from starting out with learning struggles and being called lazy, to being the mind of the century). Maybe seeing how even Einsteinââ¬â¢sà professional life was not without its bumps will inspire you to keep your head in the game and your eye on the prize, no matter what happens.
Sunday, February 16, 2020
Characteristics of Servant Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Characteristics of Servant Leadership - Essay Example There are distinctly identified characteristics of servant leaders which influence the behavior of individuals, groups and organizations as they make a profound impact to the society in general. This essay would identify two servant leadership characteristics and proffer how these characteristics are used along with collaboration to influence various individuals and groups. In addition, the areas that leaders could focus on, personally, and through their organizations, would be identified to make an impact and improve society. Larry C. Spears, Chief Executive Officer of The Greenleaf Center for Servant-Leadership, has identified ten (10) characteristics of effective, caring leaders. Spears (2006, 2) averred that ââ¬Å"servant-leadership seeks to involve others in decision making, is strongly based in ethical and caring behavior, and it enhances the personal growth of workers while improving the caring and quality of organizational life.â⬠Thereby, he identified the ten characteristics of servant leaders as skills in (1) listening, (2) empathy, (3) healing, (4) awareness, (5) persuasion, (6) conceptualization, (7) foresight, (8) stewardship, (9) commitment to the growth of people, and (10) building community. These characteristics were confirmed in another discourse written by De Graaf, Tilley & Neal (2001, 1) A servant leader characteristic that is critical and relevant in influencing individual members, groups, organizations as they move to impact society in general, is efficient and effective listening skills. A servant leader has genuine interest to determine the needs, feelings, will, and messages of his followers through intent listening. Through listening, the servant leader determines and absorbs the innermost thoughts of his constituents. Since his objective is to solicit active involvement and participation of his followers in decision making processes, listening enables the servant leader to collect inputs from his followers
Sunday, February 2, 2020
Income tax accounting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Income tax accounting - Essay Example is under 19 years old at the end of the year for which the claimant is claiming for the EITC or under 24 years old at the end of the year for which the claimant is claiming for the EITC or any age and permanently and totally disabled; and The Child Tax Credit is a separate credit from the EITC. The Child Tax Credit is a nonrefundable credit and has a limit of $1,000 per qualifying child. The actual amount of Child Tax Credit is determined based on the income. The amount of Child Tax Credit is smaller if the adjusted gross income is more than: $110,000 and the filing status is married filing jointly, $75,000 and the filing status is single, head of household, or qualifying widow(er), or $55,000 and the filing status is married filing separately (Internal Revenue Service, 2004). In addition, the Child Tax Credit is basically limited by the amount of the income tax the parent owes as well as any alternative minimum tax the parent owes (Internal Revenue Service, 2006). Parents who qualify for the Child Tax Credit may also qualify for the Additional Child Tax Credit. The Additional Child Tax Credit is a refundable credit and may give the parent a refund even if the parent does not owe any tax. The credit is for certain parents who receive less than the full amount of the Child Tax Credit (Internal Revenue Service, 2004).
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Food Supplies: Purchasing, Receipts and Storage
Food Supplies: Purchasing, Receipts and Storage The purchase, receipt and storage of food Choosing a supplier It is essential to purchase food from approved suppliers who have demonstrated a commitment to high standards of food hygiene Controls to minimize hazards from supplies/suppliers Select the least hazardous materials/ingredients e.g. pasteurized egg and ready-prepared vegetables. Specify the standard and quality of product required including the delivery temperature. Branded products usually preferable. Delivery and unloading of food The main hazards associated with deliveries are contaminated food and the multiplication of bacteria as a result of prolonged delays after unloading and before refrigeration. Unsatisfactory delivery vehicles or drivers or drivers may indicate unsatisfactory deliveries. High-risk food should be delivered below 5?, frozen food at-18?. Controls All food should be inspected before placing in storage. Deliveries should be checked for freshness, temperature, colour, odour, contamination, infestations and satisfactory packaging and labeling. Contaminated food from unapproved sources, perishable food above 8?, frozen food above -15?, food with evidence of pest activity and food which is not covered or in damaged packaging or which is out of date is suspect and may need to be rejected. The supervisor and the supplier should usually be notified. As far as practicable, external packaging should not be brought into food preparation areas. A separate deboxing area is recommended. Unloading should be completed as quickly as possible. Staff should be trained to deal with deliveries effectively and to prevent contamination occurring. Records of deliveries should be retained to enable traceability in the event or food poisoning or a food complaint. Safe food storage Correct storage is fundamental to the hygienic operation of any food business. Failure to ensure satisfactory in the event of food poisoning or a food complaint. Safe food storage Correct storage is fundamental to the hygienic operation of any food business. Failure to enable satisfactory storage conditions will result in hazards (contamination and multiplication of bacteria), mould, spoilt food, discoloration, staleness and pest infestation. Dry food stores Rooms used for storage of cereals, dried and canned foods should be suitable for this purpose, vermin-proof and kept clean and tidy. Hazards encountered include soiled delivery trays, pest infestations, damaged and leaking cartons, out-of-date stock, soil from root vegetables and chemical contamination. Controls Keep stores dry, cool, well lit and well ventilated. Effective pest control measures, storage of food at least 15cm above the floor and stock rotation systems are essential. Care with deboxing/opening sacks will avoid foreign body contamination. Food should be stored away from the walls and pipes affected by condensation and on suitable shelves such as tubular stainless steel racks, or in mobile rodent-proof bins. Spillages should be cleared away promptly. If possible, fruit and vegetables should be stored separately from other food. Fruit should be examined regularly as mould spreads rapidly. Vegetables heavily contaminated with soil should be stored below, for example, fruit or lettuce on the vegetable rack. Potatoes should be stored in the dark to prevent sprouting or turning green. A separate store should be used for storing cleaning chemicals. Blown, badly dented, seam-damaged, holed or rusty cans should be rejected. Staff should be trained to store food correctly, to remove spi llages, how to rotate stock and to recognize signs of pests and unfit food. Chilled storage High-risk and perishable foods should be stored under refrigeration to prevent most pathogenic bacteria bacteria from multiplying and to slow down the rate of spoilage. Refrigerators and freezers should be sited in well-ventilated areas away from heat sources, such as oven and the rays of the sun. Operating temperatures and monitoring Refrigerators usually operate between 1? to 4?. The display temperature should be checked every time the fridge is used. It should be recorded at least twice a day. The actual food temperature should be recorded at least weekly and whenever the display temperature is unsatisfactory. temporary rises in display temperatures will occur if doors are left open or a large quantity of food at room temperature are loaded into the fridge, for example, bottles of soft drinks or lemonade. Temperatures should return to normal very quickly and food temperatures must not rise above 8?. Contamination and covering of food Raw food must always be kept apart from high-risk food to prevent contamination of high-risk food with food poisoning bacteria. Separate refrigerators are preferred, although, if in the same unit, the raw food must always be placed at the bottom to avoid contamination. Food should be covered to prevent drying out, cross-contamination and absorption of odour. Care should be take to protect foods such as lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers from dripping blood. Packing and stock rotation refrigerators must not be overloaded, and food should never be left between products for air circulation. Only perishable foods should be stored in the refrigerator. This includes vacuum packs and pasteurized cans of meat. Stock rotation is essential to avoid spoilage. New stock should be placed behind existing stock to facilitate stock rotation. Open cans of food Opened and part-used cans of food, especially acid food such as fruit, fruit juice or tomatoes, must not be left in the can as this may result in chemical contamination. The unused contents should be emptied into a suitable container, such as a plastic bowl, covered and placed in the refrigerator. Defrosting and cleaning Defrosting and cleaning should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Most units defrost automatically and should be cleaned and disinfected at least weekly. Bicarbonate of soda (one tablespoon to 4.5 litres of water) may be used, but perfumed cleaning agents must not. Food should be placed in another refrigerator whilst the cleaning is being carried out. Staff training All food handlers must receive instruction on the correct use of the refrigerator especially in relation to contamination and temperature control. They should be told not to keep the door open for longer than necessary. Corrective action If the fridge temperature remains too high this may be a result of overloading, e.g. completely blocking a shelf or because the thermostat is too high. Inform your supervisor immediately. If the problem cant be solved, an engineer should be brought in. Food should be placed in an alternative fridge, unless it has been above 8? for more than 4hours, when it should be destroyed. Freezers and frozen food Commercial freezers should operate at -18? or slightly below. At this temperature food will keep for a reasonable time with no bacterial growth. However, spores and dormant
Friday, January 17, 2020
Mis in Microfinance
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR MICROFINANCE| ABSTRACT ICT can be a strategic tool in making Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) more efficient and effective. MFIs can reach more people in a more economic way by implementing the right Management Information System (MIS). While a few MFIs are making good use of technology, the majority are facing difficulties in getting the right solution. Reasons for this include: * Insufficient organizational and human capacity * Unavailability of suitable MIS applications for microfinance * Diversity in business processes and frequent changes in procedures * Risk of failure of the MIS Diversity of geography and language * Unavailability of vendors and their capacity to implement and support IT solutions * High cost of IT solutions for MFIs * Lack of commitment of management and key decision-makers within an MFI * Lack of awareness about the importance of IT The back-office MIS is the backbone of any Information System solution and yet it has not rec eived much attention. MFIs, whether large or small, need to have a strong back-office MIS before attempting to deploy any advanced front-end applications or delivery channels.These would be worthless without having a strong and flexible back-office MIS in place. INTRODUCTION Management information systems (MIS)à have played a key role in the traditional banking sector for years, but microfinance institutions have been much slower to utilize this technology, primarily due to budgeting shortfalls. Aà 2009 CGAP surveyà found that many microfinance institutions lack well-functioning information systems that would enable them to grow into vigorous institutions. Technology was consistently cited as one of the greatest challenges facing MFIs.Over the last several years, however, more and more MFIs have begun implementing information systems, which has the potential to provide several benefits to the industry as a whole and to MFIs in particular; ranging from loan tracking to greater transparency and risk management. Management information systems are essentially applications which enable an institution to better organize its data for the purposes of decision-making, efficiency, and external reporting. Rather than hidden within a pile of manila folders, the data is crisp, up to date, and presented in a compelling and practical form.Benefits include easier cash-flow management and forecasting, timely information regarding portfolio risk, real time performance updates, more efficient accounting procedures, and simplified external reporting. In sum, a good MIS can increase an organizationââ¬â¢s efficiency and decrease its operating costs. The biggest hurdle to the utilization of such technologies among MFIs has been the prohibitively high cost of purchase and implementation. The CGAP survey found that a majority of MFIs use either custom-built or off-the-shelf systems to track their portfolios.But a new innovation,à SaaSà (Software as a Service), has been c hanging that. Typically the SaaS software vendor hosts the application on its web servers, which the customer can download on his mobile device or computer terminal on an on-demand basis. This system provides MFIs 24/7 access from anywhere in the world, real time information, data security and automatic backup. With an SaaS system an organization pays monthly ââ¬Å"rentâ⬠, or in some cases a variable fee based on usage levels, for access to the software providerââ¬â¢s application.Instead of ââ¬Å"buyingâ⬠the software and using it in isolation, the purchaser gains access to the providerââ¬â¢s online cloud, and utilize the internet to deposit, organize, and access their information. With this changed cost structure, more and more MFIs have been able to integrate MIS into their organizational structure. SaaS technology is designed to serve international microfinance networks, such as Opportunity International, as well as national MFI branches, such asà Cresa Financ ial Services in India. Accordingly, SaaS services are emerging as the MIS model of choice for microfinance institutions.Difficulties in Adopting MIS A number of MIS solutions are emerging. Currently, there are 56 MIS applications listed on the CGAP website, although more are being used by various organizations that are not publicized. Despite the advances in MIS, practical experience shows that the acquisition of a suitable MIS is not simple. Many MFIs are struggling with their MIS. Some of the reasons for these difficulties are: * Microfinance operations are unique and complex, compared to commercial, retail banking. The Microfinance sector is still evolving and lacks standardization in its procedures, methodologies, customer characteristics, type of transactions and reporting. * There is no of-the-shelf software available that can address the requirements of every MFI. * Those MIS that are available are complex and costly for adoption by MFIs. * MFIs lack human and organizational capacity to develop or select an appropriate MIS. * MFIs operate in remote and difficult areas where communication and power infrastructure do not exist and are therefore constrained from using IT equipment required to run MIS applications.Outlook of MFIs It is evident that the MFIs around the world are diverse in their structure and practices. Following are some of the factors that differentiate MFIs from each other: 1. Type of organization: * NGO * MFI (non-regulate) * Regulated MF Institution * Microfinance banks 2. Type of Products and Services: * Minimalists (those who offer only credit services) * Loans as well as savings services * Full range of products (including loans, deposits, remittance, insurance, leasing and social services) 3. Organizational Structure: * Branch setup (small, medium and large) Staff structure * Departments (cost centre and profit centre) 4. Geography: * Area specific (operations are limited to a small area) * Country specific (operations are spread ov er an entire country) * Global operations (operating in multiple countries) 5. Operational Environment: * Rural areas * Urban areas * Other 6. Processes and procedures: * Models (associations, cooperatives, credit unions, Grameen, etc. ) 7. Regulatory environment 8. Reporting: * Management reporting * Stakeholder reporting * Microfinance networks and peer group reporting Information Systems used by MFIsThe microfinance sector is also quite diverse in its use of information systems. Generally there are the following three types: 1. Manual System Some MFIs still rely on manual systems, which involve maintenance of records in forms and ledgers. Organizations having manual systems are either small micro-credit programs or NGOs. 2. Semi-automated System More than 50% of MFIs are operating in a semi-automated mode. Within this category, the spreadsheet is the common tool being used either in conjunction with a manual system or with an MIS application that does not fulfill the information requirements of the MFI.The majority of non-regulated MFIs have semi-automated systems. 3. Fully Automated System Few MFIs are fortunate enough to have a fully automated and integrated MIS, fulfilling the whole information requirements of the organization. Such systems are existent with banks or regulated MFIs. Disadvantage of manual systems: Some of the disadvantages of manual Information Systems are: * Too laborious and time consuming. * Prone to Errors. * Data manipulation and analysis is very difficult. * Maintenance of large amount of data is almost impossible. * Data and information is not secured. Loosely controlled. * Highly inflexible (addition of new products and change in business processes). Benefits of computerized MIS to Microfinance There is no doubt that ââ¬Å"the right informationâ⬠at ââ¬Å"the right timeâ⬠at ââ¬Å"the right placeâ⬠, is crucial in decision making. Therefore, information and data is considered among the most valuable assets fundam ental to the success of an organization. The primary roles of the MIS are to capture information, create new information, store information, and convey information to the user. The two major objectives of MFIs are Outreach and Sustainability.MIS can add substantial value in achieving both the objectives: * A major advantage of MIS is that it provides easy access to accurate and up-to-date information. For example, loan officers get information on loans that need follow-up, branch managers can monitor daily progress of the branch, and senior management can get a full picture of the portfolio performance and quality. Customers also get quick information on their accounts, payments and balances. * Detailed information is captured on customers and their activities that can then be used to assess client business to assess impact.It is also useful in tracking historical information of clients. * Activities, such as disbursements, repayments, deposits, withdrawals and money transfers are c ompleted faster, better controlled and with minimum opportunity for errors. * Information is produced in user-required formats, which facilitates better understanding, setting priorities, objectives and strategy. * Key performance indicators provide an overview of the organizationââ¬â¢s performance, efficiency and effectiveness of business procedures so that timely adjustments can be made. * Use of ICT helps make MFI services more interactive, accessible and transparent. In terms of innovation, ICT provides full flexibility to structure products and services to the needs of its target group. * Efficiency and productivity of staff is increased, as they are able to manage more products, customers, and transactions in less time. Integration and Consolidation With the growth and advancement of the microfinance industry, new innovations are being witnessed. Among these innovations, technology-based delivery channels and mechanisms are creating opportunities as well as intensifying the competitive environment for MFIs.These channels are not only targeted at lowering transaction costs and extending the reach of MFIs to large populations, but are also focused around customer convenience. These technology-based mechanisms enhance efficiency of the MFIs, while posing substantial challenges in managing such technologies. One of the main challenges is that of integration and consolidation. It is essential that the back office MIS has the flexibility to integrate with such systems. The back-office MIS has received little attention within the sector.The general perception is that new technology based delivery systems would easily integrate with the core MIS, whereas in reality it is not that simple. Examples show that MFIs that have adopted such systems without assessment of their core MIS are struggling to integrate these. Because of non-integration, MFIs fall back on electronic spreadsheets or manual procedures to prepare consolidated information. Integration and conso lidation are very important for MFIs and inability to integrate new technological innovations holds them back, making them less rather than more efficient.Back-office MIS ââ¬Å"Starting Point for MFIsâ⬠The backbone of any Information System (IS) is the core MIS as it holds the critical data, and manages the information. All other systems are add-ons. A simple core MIS comprises of two parts: I. Database ââ¬â data structure; an organized set of tables designed to the needs of the business. All data of the organization resides in these tables. ii. Application Software ââ¬â comprises of the user interface, business processes, procedures, reports and queries. Fig 1: Core MISAdopting an MIS is strategically important for MFIs. They need to undertake a careful and detailed assessment of current and future needs before committing to a particular solution. Much of the systemââ¬â¢s flexibility, expandability, and robustness depend on the strength of the backend components. Strong core MIS can deliver cost-effective integration of data, channels and processes, facilitating a single consolidated view of the whole portfolio. Core MIS can provide easy data entry for the backend database, making consolidation easy to achieve.Various studies reveal that a large number of MFIs operate manual systems despite having some kind of MIS in place. One of the reasons the MIS does not cope with the changing needs of the organization is that the backend does not have the right structure. It is important for both the MFIs and microfinance software vendors to concentrate and strengthen the Core MIS. Figure 2 shows a basic structure for the Core MIS for microfinance: Fig2: Core MIS for Microfinance Other Key Deciding Factors for IT SystemsWhile the MIS needs to fulfill the business requirements of the organization, but other factors including appropriate infrastructure and hardware are also important in the success and optimal utilization of information systems. We can c ategorize the components of an information system solution into five areas: 1. Physical Architecture (Electricity/Power & communication infrastructure) Physical architecture consists of basic wires or cables to gateways and powerhouses.Together with buildings, offices, and computers, the architecture provides services of voice, data, image and video transmission while the consistent power supply keeps everything live and running. Every system needs electric power, and if systems are required to communicate, then there must be an appropriate communication infrastructure. Usually MFIs operate in remote and underdeveloped areas where this is lacking. 2. Network Three types of environment setups could be made. i. Standalone Environment; MIS is run on individual PCs and data is stored locally. ii.Local Area Network (LAN); PCs are connected together to create a LAN. The network can be either peer-to-peer or client/server. Desirable is the Client/server network where data is stored and sha red through a server in a secure way. iii. Wide Area Network (WAN); Branch offices and operation units can be connected through a WAN. It requires proper communication infrastructure and involves high cost to establishing a WAN. For online systems WAN is critical. 3. Hardware Type of hardware depends on the network environment. A client-server environment requires server and switch for connecting the workstations / PCs. . Database Generally databases can be categorized as local and client-server. Each category has its own strengths and weaknesses. These details can help MFIs in selecting the appropriate database: i. Local databases there are a number of local databases but the most widely used databases are Microsoft Access, FoxPro, Paradox, and file maker. ii. Client/Server databases iii. Most popular client/server databases also called enterprise databases include; Oracle, DB2, SQL Server, Myself, Sybase, and Informix are some of the commonly used client/server databases: 5. Appli cationA combination of business processes and procedures, user interface, reports and controls operate on top of the backend system. A large variety of software development and report generation tools are available and used to write software applications. Getting the Right Fit MFIs face great challenges in choosing the right system solution that can best fit their business needs. An MIS for microfinance must have the following characteristics: 1. Cost effectiveness: Total ownership and lifetime system operations costs, including hardware, software, network, infrastructure and human resource. . Functionality & flexibility: Fulfill maximum of the current business requirement and flexible enough to incorporate future changes. Capture and generate relevant information on an individual, group, and at a consolidated level. 3. Reliability: Incomplete and unreliable systems are dangerously risky and can hamper the business. Such systems do not produce the right results and are unable to com plete processes to the desired level. Users could be misguided by such systems. 4. Simple to use: Should be user friendly and easy to setup and operate.Activities can be performed in a systematic way and flow. 5. Scalability: System should accommodate changes to products, services and delivery channels. It should grow as the business grows. For example, if the system design is scalable, it can be run on an individual PC, Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). 6. Integration: Combining data from multiple sources is of great importance to microfinance. Integration of branches to get single consolidated picture should be a priority. Challenges faced by MFIs * Microfinance is a rapidly changing industry. Due to the ongoing volution of the industry, MFIs face difficulty in defining business objectives, needs, priorities and limitations for acquisition of an MIS solution. There is lack of standardization within the microfinance sector, and business practices of MFIs differ f rom each other. Consequently, software developers face problems in coming-up with an MIS that can be used by most of the MFIs. Common failures are due to ill defined business process and procedures. * There is a shortage of skilled professionals who can understand technology as well as the microfinance industry, and be able to suggest the right solution.Such professionals can act as a bridge in filling the gap between use of ICT and microfinance operations * Majority of the MFIs do not have the technical capacity and required resources to understand, adopt and implement MIS solutions. * Most MIS solutions are not affordable to the majority of MFIs. * In some cases there is a lack of vision and commitment from the management towards use of technology * Integration is becoming one of the big challenges, as most of the MIS solutions for microfinance are built on weak platforms, thus not being flexible and scalable enough to integrate with emerging technologies and delivery channels.Rec ommendations: * FMFBââ¬â¢s experience of adopting technology suggests that MFIs should invest in relevant technologies after thorough and careful assessment of their requirements. The requirement should be addressed in perspective of current needs and future plans. * So far the core MIS of MFIs has been neglected. MFIs should get their core MIS right before opting for any kind of delivery system. * The software industry needs to do more in developing quality software for microfinance sector. * Capacity within institutions to manage technology is key to successful implementation and operation of its MIS.MFIs should employ skilled IT professionals on their staff. * MFIs must adopt MIS solutions that not only meet their needs but are also manageable by the MFI from all aspects. In some cases small and medium size MFIs go beyond their needs in adopting an MIS that ultimately becomes a drain on their resources. Such systems reduce the organizations overall efficiency and ultimately th eir sustainability. * MFIs can get maximum benefit by investing in technology, and putting in a better MIS solution that works for them. MIS is a strategic investment for MFIs. *Progressive policies that make ICT accessible and affordable to the majority of the population are important for encouraging the use of ICT within microfinance and for the development of the microfinance sector. Conclusion The use of ICT can rightfully be to the strategic advantage of MFIs. Innovations in ICT have transformed traditional approaches to microfinance, facilitating growth and reducing cost. Some of the players have already started getting the benefit by using MIS and similar IT solutions, while the majority of the MFIs have yet to realize the importance of its use to achieve outreach and sustainability.The implementation of the right MIS still remains a big challenge faced by MFIs. Efforts are also made from various corners of the world in overcoming these challenges. CGAPââ¬â¢s Information S ystem Support is a prudent initiative to assist MFIs in getting access to ICT, aligning their MIS and using the appropriate IT solution. One of the realizations is ââ¬Å"first things firstâ⬠i. e. having an appropriate core MIS first before other systems: keeping in mind the strategic importance of ICT to the microfinance industry, renewed efforts are required from all the stakeholders to overcome the challenges faced by the microfinance industry in taking on IT.References: ââ¬â Cheryl Frankiewicz and published by CALMEADOW (2003). IT as a Strategic Tool for Microfinance in Africa ââ¬â ADB Releases (2005). Pakistan Economic Update ââ¬â Rao, M (2004), Microfinance & ICTs: Exploring Mutual Benefits and Synergy, Orbicom ââ¬â Firpo, J. (2005), Championing Scale in Microfinance: Technologyââ¬â¢s Role in Delivering Accessible Financial Services to the Poor
Thursday, January 9, 2020
Expos paper 2 - 1779 Words
Expository Writing Jesse Hoffman October 5, 2014 Puzzle of Identity in Life Every humanââ¬â¢s life is like a puzzle: starting from birth to death, all the people and all the experience that we go through will impact our future decisions and will result in a final product of our identity. Just as all the pieces of the puzzle come together to reveal a final product or an image, our past experiences come together to reveal our final product, which is our identity: who we are and what our beliefs are. The effects of past experiences and encounters will reflect the actions and connections of the present. This adventure of finding ones identity by completing the figurative puzzle requires intimate connections and memorable moments that youâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦This is why he prefers being in ââ¬Ëmiddle of the oceanââ¬â¢ versus being present in reality and having emotions and feeling connected. So in this case the part of brain designed to defend Seth from mental harm is what causing the harm to him mentally, by disassociating and not allowing hi m to feel connected. Both authors seem to agree to the fact that because of the past trauma the victims prefer being isolated and avoid human emotions. Victims who faced trauma in past, tend to isolate themselves, which deteriorates them inside out, making them unable to form an identity for themselves. Although the victims are attempting to form connection; the defense mechanism of the brain makes them disassociate and unable to be present for the events that occur in their lives. In Stouts essay, she continues on about Sethââ¬â¢s example where he is unable to connect to closest people in his life. Even though he wishes to be at the events in his life, his mind doesnââ¬â¢t allow him to do so, because it sees a threat that exists only in his mind. She quotes Seth, as he describes how he is unable to feel anything during the most intimate moments in his life. He states, ââ¬Å"Most of the time when she and I make love, and Iââ¬â¢m not there, she doesnââ¬â¢t know it even t henâ⬠¦ Itââ¬â¢s just that well, when I think about it; I realize that, really, Iââ¬â¢ve missed most of my own lifeâ⬠(Stout 436). Because of the trauma Seth had faced in past, he is unable to beShow MoreRelatedThe Importance of Event Planning1383 Words à |à 6 PagesShanghai Expo 2010 is a good example, proving that planned events have the potential to generate positive outcomes on the local economy, which in turn can improve the social status of the host city, region or country. 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