Interconnection Billing System of Grameenphone Ltd. Essay Example for Free

Interconnection Billing corpse of Grameenphone Ltd. Essay1.0 IntroductionIn early 2008, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory steering (BTRC) announced that reorganization of the countrys telecommunication interconnectedness architecture as per International Long Distance Telecommunication Services (ILDTS) Policy 2007 has to be executed by the mid of August, 2008 (BTRC, 2008a). This announcement by the telecom regulator obligated relevant telecom floozys (e.g. mobile and fixed nedeucerks) to take necessary measures to complete the re-organization business within the deadline while ensuring in that location is no or minimum subscriber inconvenience and revenue leakage due to this reorganization. Grameenphone Ltd., the largest cell phone operator of the country having a subscriber base of about 17 Million at that period (BTRC, 2008b), had to approach this regulatory directive with great importance as interconnection termination prime is the source of 2nd largest revenue stream for the company (Grameenphone Annual Reports, 2008 2011). It launched a cross-functional make to complete the interconnection restructure task smoothly.This interpret Team identified prevailing interconnection accusation processes and frames of the organization as one of the key improvement areas. It was felt that existing in-house developed tools lacked the tractableness to accommodate the change in network architecture. focal point wanted replacement of manual billing related tasks by means of with(predicate) fully automated systems to ensure scurrying transactions and generation of customized reports. After through assessment of other alternatives within the allocated budget by experts from relevant cross-functional teams, Intec Interconnection Billing System (IIBS) was procured from one of the spark advance vendors of the world, Intec Systems Ltd. (CSGI, 2012).This paper focuses on the evaluation of IIBS, a hi-tech in mixed bagation system and its contributi on to Grameenphone Ltd., a technology-based organization. Major sources of discipline are my experiences as a portion of this billing system implementation project team and later use it for about 03 years and interviews and email exchange with core technical persons and other stakeholders of IIBS. In some areas, training materials provided by the billing system vendor and web entries have been consulted as well.2.0 Overview of Intec Interconnection Billing System2.1 Telecom Interconnect and cogitate Facts Bangladesh ContextThe term Interconnect in the telecommunication world means a business model where disparate competing telephony providers coexist and interconnect to severally other (4gbilling Inc., 2012). As per Bangladesh Telecommunication Act-2001, any telecom operator must ensure any-to-any connectivity so that its subscriber(s) lot conveniently communicate with the subscriber(s) of other telecom operator(s) (BTRC, 2001c) as a result, telecom operators interconnect each other directly or through interconnection exchanges (it is the case in Bangladesh after reorganization of national interconnection architecture in 2008) and withal establish connectivity with foreign operators through international gateways.Figure 1 Block diagram of Interconnectivity (adapted from ILDTS Policy07, BTRC 2008a)After establishment of inter-connectivity, telecom operators pay each other interconnection access charges for the dealing (i.e. voice call, SMS, MMS) generated by its subscriber(s) to the other at a rate mutually negotiated or oblige by the regulator. This interconnection payment and associated tasks, e.g. calculation of interconnect traffic volume originated and received, generation of invoices, and validation of other operators invoices are dictated by their mutual interconnection agreements and/or relevant directives from the telecom regulators (Interconnection Regulations, 2004).2.2 Interconnect Billing SystemsWith the worldwide trend of telecom de-regu lation, interconnectivity gets crowded and telecom operators are in need of interconnection billing system offering detailed analysis of interconnection. The objective, of course, is to make smart and well informed business decisions to enhance revenue streams (4gbilling Inc., 2012).The major tasks accomplished by use Interconnect Billing system are -Inter-operator blockage for traffic exchanged with other operators,-Resolution of interconnection billing disputes,-Generation of various reports-Detection of various telecom frauds and assist in perplexity of those.2.3 Technological Features of Intec Interconnect Billing System (IIBS)IIBS lies at the downstream of Mediation Server in the telecom network architecture. It works under client-server model. The servers are powered by HP-UX (Hewlett-Packard, 2011). It has dual server one houses Database other runs Application (Intec Training Material, 2008).Figure 2 Network Diagram of IIBS (adapted from 4Gbilling Inc., 2012)In the client situation computers, there are different modules for invoice generation, reporting, and reconciliation of CDRs from other operator, etc. These clients are connected with the IBS application server using LAN (Local Area Network). lymph gland computers may run Microsoft Windows operating systems. The clients good deal access IIBSs application through Graphical User Interface (graphical user interface) or through web-based Oracle artificer (a customized tool) says Mr. Raiyan Karim, System Engineer, IBS of Grameenphone Ltd. (Karim, 2012).A team within the tuition Technology part are assigned the task to configure and operate IIBS while the users are stretch all over the organization ranging from Finance to Regulatory Affairs functions.2.4 Categorisation of IIBS as teaching SystemAs an information system, Intec Interconnect Billing System (IIBS) can be categorised in several perspectives.From hardware perspective (Bocij et al, 2008 Chapter 3), IIBS has the primary capture/ input technology in use is the LAN connectivity with an upstream application server, very powerful CPU as processor, 25 Terabyte online magnetic disk storage and output can be taken through either monitor display, e-document or printed papers.From software perspective (Bocij et al, 2008 Chapter 4), IIBS is an application software, to be specific, application to process large databases containing CDRs.From management-level perspectives (Laudon and Laudon, 2012), IIBS can be categorised mainly as a transaction affect system as it deals with instances of interconnection traffic exchanged (i.e. call/ SMS/ MMS made to received from other operators). This system serves requirements of operational management and but, the outputs from this system has a wider circulation to different management levels even up to top executives mainly due to importance of associated business activity (interconnectivity) for telecommunication industry.From organisational function (Laudon and laudon, 2006) perspec tives, IIBS is an Information Technology business area specific information system. It handles digital client call records for generation of interconnection billing expound.From the perspectives of reach (Boddy et al, 2005 37-38), IIBS is identified as an intra-organisational IS. though its core use lies within the IT department of Grameenphone, this system is very frequently accessed from other parts of the organizations e.g. Finance, Marketing, Regulatory Affairs, etc. Moreover, as IIBS contributes to achieve overall organisational goals e.g. time-tested settlement of interconnection revenue, help in developing market offerings, it can easily be termed as an intra-organisational IS.3.0 Supported Organisational ProcessesThe organizational processes raiseed by IIBS can be seed by using two approaches a) CIPSODAR model of information system (Heeks, 2011a) and b) usage and applications of computer based IS by organisational level (Bocij et al, 2008 P 45).3.1 CIPSODAR on IIBSIIBS captures refined CDR (Call Detail Records) from Mediation server (a system used to convert data of certain datatypes to other datatypes, usually for billing purposes, Wikipedia, 2012). These mediated CDRs are flow into IIBS as inputs.Figure 3 IIBS on CIPSODAR model (adapted from Heeks, 2011a)The captured CDRs have to contain at least 06 information fields which are in numeric form (Intec Systems, 2008) i.Unique CDR identification no. associated with each call made to received from other operators, ii.phone no. of call originating subscriber,iii.phone no. of call recipient subscriber,iv.call start time,v.call duration, vi.Intelligent network print used to identify post-paid or pre-paid subscriber.These mediated CDRs are further processed by IIBS, i.e. classifying based on various pre-set criteria e.g. pre-paid, post-paid, originating operator, terminating operator sorting therefrom based on each criteria, and finally compiling. IIBS has remarkable processing capacity as it handle s about 70 Million CDRs in every 6 hours (Karim, 2012).IIBS uses two types of storage one is online which has huge storage capacity to store CDRS for consecutive 04 months and another is older CDRs which are moved to magnetic tapes for archiving.Output from IIBS is billing details categorized based on interconnect operator, incoming call flow, outgoing call flow, or duration e.g. mean solar day-wise or month-wise. Recipients can generate invoice to be contractd to other operators or customized reports using the client side invoicing or reporting modules of IIBS.The outputs generated from IIBS data help the organization to decide on its interconnection business dodging e.g. integrate additional interconnect capacity with some operator or formulate business plan e.g. promote calls to other operators by lowering customer charge.Actions include implementation of internal business strategy or contractual obligations of interconnection agreement. The results derived from such actions a re inter-operator settlement and dispute resolution for interconnection traffic, shit competitive edge or retain stronghold over market. The outputs from IIBS billing details helps to detect and take action against telecom frauds, to meet regulatory respect by generating reports for telecom regulator on regularly and ad-hoc basis. It is useful in revenue projection through trend analysis of interconnection traffic.3.2 Organisational Levels and IIBSAs mentioned in earlier section, IIBS mainly functions as transaction processing system and hierarchically destined to serve the operational management. The operations managers ensure processing activities of IIBS. In this level, IIBS serves as a solution to generate reliable invoices, validation of other party invoices, resolution of inter-operator invoiced /data related disputes, and generation of various reports.Figure 4 IIBS different Organisation level (adapted from Bocij et al, 2008)In upper level of the organisational hierarchy, IIBS generated reports serve as tactical tool. Based on interconnection traffic trends and invoices, they generate interconnection revenue forecast, interconnection capacity requirement etc.IIBS reports are consulted by Top Management level also. Settlement of interconnection revenue is a key issue as it counts for the 2nd largest revenue stream of Grameenphone (Grameenphone 2011). Interconnection traffic volume is a key indicator of customer attractiveness of competitors market offerings. Based on the trend of interconnect traffic, business directions are made to product development team.4.0 Evaluation of Information SystemIntec Interconnect Billing system (IIBS) may be evaluated from two perspectives a) IS Cost / benefits model and b) DeLone/ McLean model.4.1 Benefits and be of IIBSBenefitsAs IIBS is mainly a transaction processing system, its benefits can be better evaluated using Process Benefits simulation (Heeks, 2011b). Based on user experiences and discussion with IIBS tec hnical teams (2012), several benefits are cosmos generated from IIBS, along both efficiency and goodness categorises. The below table summaries these benefitsSl.Process BenefitExamples Cited by Stakeholders (Discussion, 2012) 1CheaperIntroduction of IIBS has reduced no. of manpower inevitable to do the task than it was required previously by one-third employees. 2MoreIn comparison to previous ad-hoc system, IIBS processes more CDRS while tutelage the resources requirement about the same (except storage). 3QuickerIIBS processed about 70 Million CDRs in 6 hours whereas prior system could process only about 50 Million CDRs at the same time.Invoice generation and processing of other party CDRs for the purpose of interconnect dispute resolution has become faster. 4BetterPreviously CDRs were processed through manual systems. That system lacked consistency in interconnect billing reporting due to its business logic. 5NewIIBS has introduced Graphical user Interface for the clients which help them to generate customized reports on interconnectivity round the clock. Previously, the reporting was made ad-hoc basis as per requirement from Project Team elude 1 Benefits of Information Systems (Heeks, 2011b)Costs of IIBSCosts of an information system can be measured in 03 criteria i) implementation costs measured in financial cost ii) operational costs both financial and unannounced outcomes, and iii) loss of previous operational benefits (Heeks, 2011b).Costs of IIBS in this viewSl.CostExamples Cited by Stakeholders (discussion, 2012)1.Implementation CostsImplementation of IIBS has cost the organization about 1.2 Million USD as payment to vendor, Intec Systems (IIBS Business Case, 2008). 2.Operational Costs (inc. Problems)IIBS requires about slightly higher (13%) storage for processing of CDRs in comparison to previous system.3.Previous operational benefits lostIn case of prior billing solutions, modification could be done by internal experts, now change request needs to be made with the vendor which is expensive after free service period.Table 2 Costs of Information Systems (Heeks, 2011b)4.2 DeLone McLean Multi-Perspective EvaluationDeLone McLean (1992) have described one of the most popular models of evaluating success of information systems (Heeks, 2011b).Figure 5 Multiple perspectives on IS success/failure DeLone McLean (1992)DeLone McLean model can be measured suggested by Boddy et al (2005).4.2.1 System QualityThese are the required features and characteristics of the information system (Heeks, 2011b). In the case of IIBS, as per IT experts and users from other business functions (Discussion, 2012), it is reliable, includes enhanced features both in damage of system operation and output generation and the response time is also considerably faster. 4.2.2 Information QualityInformation quality concerns the characteristics of the information produced by the system (Heeks, 2011b). In the case of IIBS, outputs generated are (invoices and va rious reports) are exculpated to interpret, quite high on completeness to serve intended purposes, and useful and accurate, except a a couple of(prenominal) rare cases. Grameenphone RAFM (Revenue Assurance Fraud Management) team validates output of IIBS to be highly satisfactory. 4.2.3 Use and user rejoicingUse and user satisfaction are concerned with the interaction between the information produced by the system and the recipients (Heeks, 2011b)IIBS, being an integral part of Grameenphones interconnection system, it is used in daily basis for the whole period required to process interconnect CDRs for the concerned day and to serve report requests from cross-functional teams. Information necessary to make a revenue projection or serve regulatory report requests on monthly or ad-hoc basis are served timely basis from the system.Users are overall satisfied with IIBS but they would prefer if the system had flexibility of producing further customized reports. Except very few cases, the information required vs. delivered from IIBS had no significant deviation. The Graphical user interface, easy maintenance, easily scalable, and web-based access are few impart factors to user satisfaction. Software satisfaction is quite high amongst regular users while occasional users found the interface a difficult to use.4.2.4Individual impactIt relates to the extent to which the information produced by the system influences or affects decisions (Heeks, 2011b).Reports generated from IIBS system are quite helpful to identify any problem in the area of interconnectivity and normally decisions made are correct. These decisions are quite effective also. Usually key points are placed to top management weekly basis. Productivity improvement in interconnected areas is remarkable. It allows observing trend of interconnection traffic generated and received ant to decide on optimal interconnection capacity, etc.By these measures for other decision issues e.g. market attractiveness of other operators customer charge are not in that brighter side as there are many relevant factors therein.4.2.5 Organisational impactIt measures the effect of the information produced by the system on organisational performance (Heeks, 2011b). Interconnection is a regulatory compliance issue and it also generates revenue of about 100 Mn. USD for Grameenphone (Grameenphone, 2011). Considering this importance of interconnectivity for Grameenphone, it may be concluded that the organizational impact of IIBS is significant. The investments made vs. benefits enjoyed from IBS (e.g. lower processing time, timely invoicing to ensure timely revenue settlement) are in quite positive side.In overall evaluation, IIBS is a undefeated information system meeting the requirements of stakeholders and also exceeding the costs by benefits in great margin.5.0 Factors for Success of IIBSA large number of information systems fail to achieve the desired objectives, e specificly in the developing countries. In this context, success of Intec Interconnect Billing System (IIBS) in Grameenphone Ltd. is quite remarkable. We can analyse the pay backs behind the success using 1) IS Implementation Outcome Model (Laudon and Laudon, 2006) and 2) Design-Reality to-do analysis using ITPOSMO (Heeks, 2011c).5.1 Information System Implementation Outcome ModelIn the ninth edition of their book, summary model of information systems success and failure factors were presented by Laudon and Laudon (2006).Figure 6 IS Implementation Outcome Model (Laudon and Laudon, 2006)Applying the model on IIBS, we can come up with following User fight and influence In the requirement finalization stage during procurement of interconnection billing system in Grameenphone, actual users were member of the cross functional team and their views were taken with great importance. Later, these requirements were used as reference to select the vendor and customization negotiated with them. Management support Required managem ent support was available during implementation of IIBS in Grameenphone.The project team was highly empowered having Chief Information Officer as Project Sponsor and other senior managers in the Project Steering Committee. Level of complexity/risk Though IIBS is a high-tech information system, it is highly structured, and the project team had required technical capacities on-board. Management of the implementation process IIBS was endowed with required financial and human resources and proper training sessions was arranged also.5.2 Design-Reality Gap summary of IIBSThough IIBS is considered to be a successful information system, the system can be improved in some areas, observations by internal stakeholders (Discussions, 2012). These areas include re-shape the GUI to be more user friendly in perspectives of non-IT users. Reducing the storage requirement a bit can directly benefit in terms of saving expensive storage capacity. These can be attributed to the gap between information s ystem tendency and reality i.e. actual implementation of the system (Heeks, 2011c). The Dimensions of designreality gaps for IIBS can be analysed using ITPOSMO model (Heeks, 2011cFigure 7 Designreality gap model to analyse IS Success/Failure (Heeks, 2011)5.2.1 Information Dimension Gap military rating 2.0The system design assumed that the inputs to IIBS (processed CDRs from Mediation server) will always be in right format. But, very occasionally, there were CDRs from intermediation in wrong format or missing one or more key fields. These unprocessed CDRs were stored in the error bucket and required special processing by System Engineers later on.5.2.2 Technology Dimension Gap Rating 3.0The technological design contributed to gain buy-in of overall user satisfaction for IIBS. The processing of CDR files was quicker than previous system. It also contributed in reducing man-hour required to configure and operate the system. But, in the areas of storage requirement and design ofgraphic al user interface (GUI), there are gaps between expectation and reality.5.2.3 Process Dimension Gap Rating 3.0The business processes were supportive to desired functioning of IIBS. The system produced invoices and customized reports as desired. Though, there are some requirements to be able to further customize the reporting modules. Sometimes, there are hiccups in generations of output also. 5.2.4 The objectives and values dimensionGap Rating 4.0Decision to procure IIBS was made by a cross-functional team having relevant experiences and expertise. It was decided to further enrich the system by adding additional features to it so that it can handle settlement for mobile contents/ value added services with the respective content or value added service providers. But, even after 03 years of successful operation of IIBS, these additional features have not been included yet (Karim, 2012). It is assumed that potential personal interest may contribute to this non-inclusion of mobile conte nt/ vas related features to IIBS. Notably, currently these settlements are handled by an IT manager having a team of 05 employees whereas if the features included to IIBS, the whole processing would require no or utmost 01 employee from this team.5.2.5 Staffing and skills Gap Rating 2.0The organization had competent staff experienced with configuration, operation, maintenance of interconnect billing systems. Moreover, to get them acknowledged with the new system, required training was provided by the vendor.5.2.6 Management systems and structures Gap Rating 2.0Introduction of IIBS helped in reducing manpower required to run similar systems previously and following that management hierarchy in IT department was simplified.5.2.7 Other resources Gap Rating 2.0In other dimensions, IIBS helped in saving processing time comparison to previous system. With increased efficiency, it contributed in monetary terms as well. 5.2.8 Overall Total gap score is 18 for IIBS. There is an insignifica nt design-reality gap for the system with none being a possible cause of failure.6.0 ConclusionGrameenphone Ltd. implemented Intec Interconnect Billing System (IIBS) for about 4 years (since August, 2008 to till now). The major objectives of the system were to ensure accurate and quicker settlement for interconnection traffic with interconnected operators in a complicated network architecture and resolution of related disputes in timely fashion. It also aimed to generate required customized reports for users from different business functions of the organization and for managers of different organisational levels.In consideration of stakeholder views towards IIBS and its analyses through various theoretical models, the system is an example of successful information systems. The major contributing factors behind the success are insignificant gap between design and reality. And creation of this favourable scenario is attributed to good practices of information system implementation e.g . empowered involvement of users, management commitment, and availability of key resources, etc.7.0 References4GBILLING INC., Interconnect Billing Overview Online. Available http//4gbilling.com/interconnect.html Accessed 21 April, 2012 Bocij, Paul, Andrew Greasley and Simon Hickie (2008) Business Information Systems Technology, Development and Management, 4th edn, Prentice Hall, Upper attach River Boddy, D., Boonstra, A. Kennedy, G. (2005) Managing Information Systems An Organisational Perspective, 2nd edn, Pearson Education Limited, London BTRC, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (2008) ILDTS Policy-2007 Online.Availablehttp//www.btrc.gov.bd/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=153Itemid=259 Accessed 10 April, 2012 BTRC, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (2008) Mobile Phone Subscribers in Bangladesh Online. Available

Implicit Premise Essay Example for Free

Implicit Premise EssayImplicit laying claim is a missing premise that is supposed to support the windup to make the argument a good and well-formed argument.The implicit premise from There are sins worse than cheating by The Unskooled Professor is, performance of students and teachers measure out the value of the university. The argument talks about what kind of grades a student gets when they are found guilty of academic dishonesty, then concludes with a point verbalize that academic dishonesty leave behind destruct the value of the university. However it does not point out why academic dishonesty is related to the value of the university. If I were to reconstruct the argument, I would interpret it as shown below.Without implicit1) Students guilty of academic dishonesty will receive a letter grade of FD ,Failure with swindle2) Receiving an FD is worse than receiving an F3) Academic dishonesty is a concoction of individual professors4) Therefore, academic dishonesty, in wh atever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university.Adding the implicit premise1) Students guilty of academic dishonesty will receive a letter grade of FD Failure with Dishonesty2) Receiving an FD is worse than receiving an F3) Academic dishonesty is a concoction of individual professors4) Performance of students and teachers evaluate the value of the university5) Therefore, academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university.Before adding the implicit premise, there were no premises to support why the values of the university will fall due to academic dishonesty. In general, most people know that academic dishonesty will give a student a failing mark and will bring down the grade average of the university which evaluates the value and ratings of universities. However, for people who does not make up any knowledge about universities will not know why the values of the university would be ultimately destructive. By addi ng the implicit premise, a stronger argument tidy sum be formed and can support and reason why the conclusion may be true.

Communications Coordinator Essay Example for Free

Communications Coordinator EssayAs the Communication Coordinator for this national drug manufacturer, directly we will need to brainstorm and discuss how we will address the negative effects that our medication are ca using to the public. The local news has already started a witch hunt by allegedly reporting that one of our local officials has suffered from adverse side effects from our medications. How can we address the public regarding this issue without losing railway line and the trust we created with our investors and our consumers?In todays meeting we will decide which communication tactic is the most suitable for this situation, while making sure that we bear within the HIPPA guidelines. We will start by discussing the advantages and disadvantages of using tralatitious media. Traditional media can include newspapers, magazines, radio, and television. There are some great advantages n milk whey these media outlets would be great in reaching our audience regarding thi s health scare.Two great traditional methods are newspapers and magazines they can help because we can be particular and explicit when discussing our issues. Additionally, these methods would provide use with a permanent record of our attempt to reach the public (Advantages and Disadvantages of written communication, 2012). Two other good traditional methods are radio and television. These methods are great because they are very cost effective and will stomach us to reach our audience directly and will allow us to show emotion and concern regarding this matter.All of these methods seem like they would work but there are disadvantages with sticking to traditional media outlets instead of using electronic or social media sites. Some valid concerns we have with using electronic or social media sites. Some main concerns we have with using traditional media is that it can only reach a limited amount of people and we are restricted to a small scope of listeners and readers. In addition, feedback is not warm like electronic or social media sites.

The Ottoman Empire Essay Example for Free

The Ottoman Empire EssayThe Ottoman Empire was a Turkish Muslim empire that existed from the yr 1299 to 1922, controlling must of Southeastern Europe, the set East and North Africa at the height of its power during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The Empire expanded throughout its narrative under extremely brave leaders, while its adversaries were weak and disunited.The Ottoman army comprised numerous Christians. And an important reason why the Ottomans were so successful was that they brought unity among Jews, Christians and Muslims unfeignedly uniting them under the banner of People of the Book as mentioned in the Holy Quran. Hence, history informs us that the Jews, too, made significant contributions to Ottoman arts as well participating in the political life of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans were masters at building architectural masterpieces. In modern day Istanbul, evidence remains to release the glory of the Ottoman Empire. The mosque built by Sulayman the Magnificent is one of the greatest contributions to architecture made by the Ottomans. Then there are many former(a) buildings to reveal the glory. The Aqaba Castle in Jordan the Ottoman fortress in Seddulbahir, bomb calorimeter and the Qasr Ibrim in the middle Nile valley are just few other examples of luxuriant Ottoman architecture. Ottoman Turks similarly played an important fictitious character in the advancement of science. Ali Kuscos contributions to mathematics and astronomy were significant. Moreover, the Ottomans played a central role in the progression of military technology and capability.In fact, Ottoman maritime arsenals and shipbuilding technology is especially offered as an example of their contributions to the world of technology. Scholars describe the shank of Mehmed II the artillery trade of the Ottoman Empire the Piri Reis innovation and the attempts of flight, automatic machines, submarine, and rocket technology in Ottoman history. Scholars further asser t that the Ottomans had a turbid influence on Europe. However, Europeans have been shy of describing this influence, spreadn that the Ottomans had conquered many European lands through its superior military capability. Besides their scientific activities, and interest in architectural design, the Ottomans were deeply involved in the arts of paper marbling, calligraphy, gold ornamentation, miniature, and the making of euphony. As a matter of fact, Ottoman music is as an art that was originally produced by the court and folk musicians in military, religious, classical and folk styles.This music has been used in all segments of society, from the Chinese borders to Morocco. The Ottoman sultans were known to appreciate the music of multicultural artists. Hence, Ottoman music does not undermine the contributions of the non-Ottoman or non-Muslim artists. Rather, it presents itself with all of its influences as the most developed, refined, and elite branch of all the Turkish musical tra ditions. The Ottomans had built a very strong form of government, a model for the rest of the world. Besides, the reign of Sulayman I saw the flowering of Turkish literature, art and architecture a sign of great success by itself. After Sulayman, however, the Ottoman Empire began to decay as the clergy and the Janissaries gained power to exercise a profound, corrupting influence. In fact, depravity is one of the reasons why the Ottoman Empire fell after its rise. Following the reign of Sulayman I, the Ottoman Empire suffered a naval defeat at the pass of Europes John of Austria. Murad IV in the seventeenth century restored some of the lost Turkish military prestige, nevertheless, by his victory over Persia. Crete was conquered, and capital of Austria was surrounded. The relief of Vienna by John III of Poland and the subsequent campaigns of Charles V of Lorraine, Louis of Baden, and Eugene of Savoy ended in negotiations in 1699, called the Treaty of Karlowitz. This treaty cost Tur key Hungary and other territories. Indeed, the Ottoman Empire had to break up because it was rather difficult for rulers following Sulayman to manage its vastness. But the end of the Empire actually came when the Ottomans joined the exchange Powers to form the Triple Alliance and enter World War I. The reasons why the Ottomans had sided with Germany were threefold Germany had pressured the Ottomans to side with it, offered them money and future control over the Russian territory, and also won clear victories during the early part of the War. Thus, the Triple Entente or Allied Powers declared war on the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empires decision to side with Germany eventually cost the Empire its life. Although the Ottomans managed to win important victories in the early stages of the War, there were setbacks to boot. In the final stages of the War the Ottomans took Azerbaijan, though they had to give it up at the end of the War. Ottoman defeat came from a combination of attacks on strategic targets by British forces and the Arab Revolt of 1916-1918. At this point of time, the Ottomans were veneering difficulties on the home front as well. The Empire was finally partitioned in the aftermath of the War. The Allied Powers required the Empire to submit to a total partition. The Middle Eastern territories of the Empire were partitioned under the mandates of Britain and France, the Turkish Mediterranean was ceded to Italy, the Turkish Aegean coast was given over to Greece, and the Turkish straits and Sea of Marmara were ceded to the Allied Powers.

The Fundamentalism And Caste Conflict Phenomenons Religion Essay

The Fundamentalism And set Conflict Phenomenons Religion EssayFundamentalism and Casteism be considered as two diametrical phenomenons. Whereby twain these terminologies gravel been approached believably as disparate issues lying in the present Indian scenario. Conflict, as well, seems to be considered as the outcome of these issues. However, in that location is an attempt made in this paper to find out firstly, what centralism means, secondly how fundamentalism becomes the base for Casteism thirdly how Casteism paved the way for contrasting affairs and finally, this paper deals with the subgenus Pastoral Response from the Pastoral C ar and rede perspective to the rank remainder situation, which emerged from fundamentalism. Though Fundamentalism it ego has the wide range of definition and yet not confined to a particular definition, in dress to dress the scope of this paper, the definition of the term Fundamentalism is narrowed down to the foundational beneathstandi ng of the Caste System. Nevertheless, this paper tries to inhumeact with these isms from their basic understanding and what upshot they have brought to the society.1. Fundamentalism What does it mean?Fundamentalism is the coiffe of following very uncompromisingly the basic rules and teachings of any religion defines Oxford Advance learners lexicons seventh edition. Steven J stars, a research scholar from Virginia University describes that the term fundamentalism was initiated in the series of booklets authored and create by leading Evangelical churchmen in US between 1910 and 1915. However, the term was given full strength in 1920 after Curtis Lee Laws appropriated the term fundamentalistic as a designation for those who were ready to do battle royal for the Fundamentals. M.M.Thomas comments, These booklets opposed the application of modern critical historical approach to the bible and the handed-down dogmas of Christianity, because in their opinion, it would destroy their s upranatural and supernatural elements which belong to their very essence.Though the definition of this term has wide range of meaning, yet a fundamentalist is reckoned as the strict follower of a particular religions teachings and its beliefs. James Barr states Fundamentalism is based on a particular kind of religious tradition, and uses the form, kinda than universe, of biblical authority to provide a shield for this tradition. Even, Bruce Lawrence in his book Defenders of God defines fundamentalism as The affirmation of religious authority as holistic and absolute, admitting of neither criticism nor reduction it is expressed through with(predicate) the collective demand that specific creedal and ethical dictates derived from the scriptures be publicly recognized and legally enforced. David Frawley views that, Fundamentalists generally hold to their religions older kind customs and stand to integrate into the broader stream of modern society which recognizes freedom of religio us belief. In agreement to this statement, Dr.Ramendra identifies, fundamentalism means belief inthe literal virtue of religious scriptures and fundamental religious beliefs of any religion. For Altmeyer and Hunsinger fundamentalism is the belief that there is one set of religious teachings that clearly contains the fundamental, basic, intrinsic, essential, inerrant truth about macrocosm and deity that this essential truth is fundamentally opposed by forces of wretched which must be vigorously fought that this truth must be followed today according to the fundamental, unchangeable practices of the past and that those who moot and follow these fundamental teachings have a special relationship with the deity. As a whole, though the term fundamentalism is widely used with different connotations, still it go offnot be denied that the term basically used with religious notion and it stands for it till today whether stand for inerrancy of truth or militancy in its outlook. M.M.Thomas , Citing V.M.Tarkhundess statement, says Fundamentalism consists of uncritical adherence to ancient beliefs and practices.On the new(prenominal) hand, Fundamentalism is probably viewed as the counter sanctuary to Liberalism, Modernism and Secularism. The fundamentalist movement tries to preserve what it considers the basic ideas of Christianity against criticism by liberal theologians. Fundamentalism designates what is more(prenominal) generally called a conservative type of Christian thought, as opposed to the liberal or modernist tendencies. M.M.Thomas states It may also arise from the insecurity of faith when its religious expressions are faced with the necessity to change.and Fundamentalism emerged out of reaction to closed secularism Erskine Clarke utters that Fundamentalists resist secularisation and the cultural elements of modernity Accordibng to Marsden, an American fundamentalist is an evangelical who is militant in contrary to liberal theology in the churches or to c hanges in cultural values or mores, such as those associated with secular humanism. In his note, he says, in recent years been applied by analogy to any militantly traditional religion, such as Islamic fundamentalism. M.M.Thomas opines, It is justifiable to characterise as fundamentalist confusable movements in any religion which excepttress traditional beliefs and social order from reform or changeOver all, Fundamentalism can be defined as strictly following of religious beliefs and traditions as well as it is a counter attitude against modernity which hails secularism and liberalism. With this definition, let us move on to see the club constitution in India.2. Caste Does it emerge from Fundamentalism?On its outlook, everyone would say that Caste system is probably not an outcome of Fundamentalism because both of them are different issues. Whereby, in this paper an argument is proposed that Casteism in India is one of the fruits of Fundamentalism. Though Caste System itself ha s the attitude of fundamentalism, the primary focus of this paper is how Casteism can be the victim of fundamentalism. There were many who fought kindred B.R.Ambedkar, Periyar, Jothiba Phule and Panditha Ramambai for the eradication of this canker system, hence it still rules the Indian society because of its deep get-gos in the Indian Soil. In order to substantiate the argument, it is good to view the definition and origin of the Caste system in India.The say caste, which is of Spanish and Portuguese origin, is derived from Latin Castus which means pure. However, the Portuguese word casta means breed, race or kind. It seems that the word was used by the Portuguese to denote Indian social classification says Bal Krishna Sharma. Seligman describes caste as an endogamous and heritable subdivision of an ethnic unit occupying a position of superior or inferior rank or social esteem in comparison with other such subdivision. Nesfield and Sir H.Risley also support this view. Ketkar d efines caste as (1) membership is confined to those who are born of members and includes all persons so born (2) the members are forbidden by an inexorable social law to marry outside the group. Thus, caste is a stratified system in which each segment has its identity with a vulgar name, origin and strictly specified inter-group relations. Each group is endogamous, traditionally following an occupation and enjoying a particular postion in the social hierarchy, built around the opposition of purity and pollution. The groups are localised, but keep social distance between them.However, Casteism arises out of Hindu philosophy and becomes the beacon of the unique identity of the Hindu Society. Oxford Dictionary defines as any of the four main division of the Hindu society, originally than made according to function in the society. T.K.Oomen states, What is unique to India is the all pervasive Caste hierarchy, legitimised through the Hindu doctrine of Karma and reincarnation. P.K.Kar el ucidates that the beginning of Caste system is in the Hindu philosophy of four varnas. Ambrose Pinto cites Ambedkars view that the sanction behind the caste system is the religious sanction, for, the caste as the new form of varna system derives its sanction from the Vedas which form the sacred books of the Hindu religion and which are infallible. I say alas because anything, which has a religious sanction, becomes by virtue of it sacred and eternal. To the Hindu, caste is sacred and caste is eternal. Max Weber Cited by Toppo states, Caste, that is, the ritual and rights and duties it gives and imposes, and the position of the Brahmans, is the fundamental institution of Hinduism. Before everything else, without caste there is no Hindu. Thus, the caste system in India belongs to Hindu Philosophy which emerges from Vedas and Upanishads. Whereas this system is cemented by the decree of Manu, called Manava Dharma Shastra or Manusmirti. Dr.Ramendra says, According to Manusmriti, anybod y who argues critically and logically aboutdharmashastras ought to be ostracized.With the above information, let us now look at the similarities between Fundamentalism and Casteism. Basically, both these isms consider the religious beliefs, teachings, and tradition as their base. Another aspect is their strong opposition to modernism. While modernism supports liberalism and secularism, the caste system in India can witness its strong roots in the Indian Soil. For which, the recent issues like Honour Killing, the atrocities against Dalits and the demand for caste base census all show the very fact that though India achieves many things with modernity, yet is under the strong bondage of Casteism. Dr.K.S.Jacob states, While the secular, socialistic and democratic principles enshrined in the constitution demand equality of outcomes, the inherent caste-related inequality continues to dominate reality in Indian society. M.M.Thomas claims ,Purity and impurity ideas were the religious found ation of caste and it is the return to it by the middle class for spiritual and economic stability that makes their shift from secularism to hindutva.It is painful to note the caste embracement is not only of Hinduism, but also it has its strong footage in Isalam and Christianity too in the recent past. One may probably question, why such savage system in these religions? The answer drawn by Koilaparampil when talking about Caste among Christians, he states the rank of the Christian in the local community continues to calculate on the Caste from which he was converted and this persists to the third and forth generation. As M.M.Thomas states Fundamentalism consists of uncritical adherence to ancient beliefs and practices may probably support this notion when we compare Caste among Christian and Fundamentalism. As Caste is considered important for identification, may also support the above view.Finally both these issues may Probably lead towards strife or violence. The recent murd er in Khairlanji, a village in Maharashtra depicts the picture of the caste systems rule yet in Indian soil. Thus, Casteism can probably consider as the fruit of fundamentalism and this leads to the present day Caste difference of opinions.3. ConflictEtymologically the term conflict is derived from con-fligere (Latin) denoting to strike together. It implies fight, clash, sharp or mild disagreement or even antagonism. Rachel Bagh cites William W.Wilmot and Joyce L.Hockers definition conflict is an expressed struggle between at least two interdependent parties who perceive incompatible goals, scarce, resources, and interference from others in achieving their goals. Alan C.FIlley defines conflict as a process which takes place between two or more parties. By parties he refers to individuals, groups, or organizations. Whereby, he explains, Within our various social relationships are some which involve real or perceived differences between two or more parties. Where the interests of the parties are mutually exclusive that is, where the gain of one partys goal is at the cost of the others, or where the parties have different values- then the resulting social interaction between the parties contains fertile ground for conflict. According to Lewis A.Coser, conflict is a struggle over values or claims of status, power and scarce resources, in which the aims of the conflicting parties are not only to gain the desired values but also to neutralize, injure or eliminate their rivals. Such conflicts may take place between individuals and between collectivities. Intra group as well as inter group conflicts are perennial feature of social life. B.J.Prashantham states Incompatible goals and means of achieving them can lead conflicts in inter- private relations as would, differences in perception, communication styles, personality differences, personal interests and ideology. Thus, Maria Arul Raja comments, Whenever human agency is alive and active, they appear rather clearl y, in a positive or negative manner. Conflict, thus. Can be defined as the struggle between two persons or parties aiming at some goal to achieve.Conflict is categorised under four divisions they are intra-personal, inter-personal, intra-group and inter-group.Intra-PersonalIt is conflict within a person. Murry states that according to psychologists there is a crowd in each of us. For which he elucidates, there is a conflict between the spending self and saving self of a person when he received money. For him, Sigmund Freuds theory of a person as a composite of three forces (the Id, the Ego, the Super-Ego) each with different wishes and standards and Eric Bernes theory of a person as a composite of three different ego-states (Parent ego, Adult ego, and Child ego) with three different attitudes to life and the environment, are the better(p) witnesses for explaining intra personal conflict.Inter-PersonalThis is a conflict between two individuals. Each person has different necessitate , values system, a world view and wants. When people with these differing dispositions meet, they clash. The difference may further widen by difference in sex, race, class and creed and social conflict becomes inevitable.Intra-Group and Inter-GroupInter-group and even intra-group conflict can arise due to differences in goals, values, loyalties and heritage. Race, region, creed, nationalities, and ideologies are among the factors causing inter-group conflicts. Members of different groups develop inter-group loyalties and perceive the other groups with disinterest, prejudice, and antagonism.Therefore, conflict arises in any one form of the above. It is important to note that a persons doings may affect his personality as well as others. Alfred Adler states that a man is motivated primarily by social urges. Behaviourist therapy considers outward behaviours are the result of faulty, maladaptive learning from the environment. So, conflict in the inter personal or inter group level may spring out because of the intra personal conflict. Besides, for the interpersonal conflicts, P.K.Kar narrates, lower castes in India who are disabled from the social, economic, educational and religious viewpoint, most often become aware of their position and resent oppression and difference by higher castes. This change in the outlook of the lower castes culminates in inter caste conflicts. The Khairlanji Murder is the best example of this cause. Another present reality issue in the Indian scenario is Honour killings. This issue is the reaction to inter-caste marriages is much stronger and violent when the girl marries a dalit or into a lower caste than her own, Says times of India.Knowing the fact that the Caste is one of the sources of conflict, now we move on to the next section where we can draw some useful responses to resolve the conflict from the Pastoral Care and Counselling perspective.4. A Pastoral Response to Caste ConflictPastoral Care and Counselling in the words of William A.Clebsch and Charles R.Jackle is defined as a helping act, done by representative Christian persons, direct towards the healing, sustaining, guiding, and reconciling of troubled persons whose troubles arise in the context of ultimate meanings and concerns. Thus, a Pastor or a Christain counsellor is the one who helps people in times of their trouble. For which, C.W.Bristar expresses, the Churchs ministry is personal and social, ranging from individual salvation and guidance to mutual support and social welfare. Rachel Bagh refers that we are called to the ministry of reconciliation/peacemaking (2Cor. 517-20). So, the role of the counsel in the conflict occlusion is crucial and necessary in order to help persons to liberate from the bondage of Conflict. Probably, there may be diverse opinions and suggestion for the conflict resolution, hence hereby some pastoral responses are placed knowingly the limitation of this paper.Preparation of the CounsellorIn order to have a frui tful reconciliation ministry, the preparation of the Counsellor is crucial. For which Augsburger suggests that the intermediators seek progressively sharpen their basic skills of empathy, active listening, sensitivity to needs of parties, signified of timing, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, capacity to maintain neutrality while remaining in contact, and ability to understand the stages of negotiation and conflict resolution. Along with this, Rachel Bagh suggests that the mediator should be trustworthy and confidential. Besides, the counsellor need to sense the presence of Holy Spirit and can probably utilise religious recourses (like Prayer, Scripture and etc.) and Religious symbols (Theological symbols like Grace, forgiveness, Atonement and so on) in the counselling process. Thus, the preparation of the counsellor is necessary before the counselling process starts in caste conflict resolution.Preparation of the CounseleePreparing for bridalAcceptence is the basic asp ect in conflict resolution. Conflict arise when one person thinks that he is superior. Both Fundamentalism and caste sytem have the attitude of Superiority. Whereby others those who dont follow the norms of the fundamentalists are considered as the enemies of fundamentalism. This attitude creates conflict. The inferior attitude of oneself leads to inferiority complex, aggression, fear, anxiety and so on. This postulates the intrapersonal conflict. Whereby, superior attitude leads to interpersonal or inter-group conflict too. The counsellor needs to back up the client to consider other human as human and should help him/her to respect each other. As Carl Rogers proposes, Unconditional Positive Regard need to be important in resolving the problem. The best example of this acceptance would be Jesus. As Murry states, Christians are the members of the new humanity in Christ whose thoughts and actions are directed by the principles of Christ. Thus, the counsellor helps the client to prep are himself to accept each other.Encouraging for love your NeighbourAnother important aspect in conflict resolution is encouraging the client to love other even enemies. Rational emotive Therapy of Albert Ellis highlights irrational beliefs and perception leads to distortion of personality. Both caste system and Fundamentalism imposes hatred rather love with the irrational religious beliefs. For example, Ambrose Pinto in his article Caste conflict in Karnataka, indirectly quotes the study crisis of the conflict in Idapanur is hatred between different castes. However, God expects us to Love others (John 1512). Murry states that the plain truth about God and the Christians is that God wants the Christians in every situation to love the other serviceman (even enemies), to forgive the others more than once, to seek also the interests of the others, to do the others as he/she would like to do to him/her.Making a Sense of ReconciliationThe conservative notion is that never reconcile wi th anybody. Fundamentalism is on that line the same way, though many improvements in the society arise, still we hear about caste discrimination and caste biased atrocities. This shows the strength of non-reconciliation. Whereas, conflict resolution hangs on acceptance, Love one another and forgivenss. The spirit of forgiveness leads towards reconciliation. Murry, states that The Christ-event in history is symbolized by the shape of the handle Christ died on the vertical line symbolizing God-human reconciliation accomplished, and the horizontal beam symbolizing the imperative of human-human reconciliation if humans should avail the efficacy of Christs redemption. The loanblend of Christ reminds us of Gods love, humility, forgiveness, and vicarious death for those who broke His heart should e the reference point for the Christians in dealing with any kind of conflict personal, communal or global. Ps. 8510, 2 Cor. 1311, Rom. 51, Eph. 214). Eric Bernes Transactional Analysis explain s the three ego states (Parent ego, adult ego, and child ego). According to Murry, The over dependence on either one ego states will result in conflict. So, all these three to some proportions are required in a person. The counselee has to be reminded of benignant each other and accept each other without comments.Creating the sense of WholenessConflict damages the personality. As Fritz Perls views, many personalities as lacking wholeness, as macrocosm fragmented and people are often aware of only parts of themselves rather than of the whole self. further he states that the Gestalt therapists assist to discover clients self and taunt it for greater effectiveness. Fundamentalism and Caste System segregate the human socity and also looks other with negative cannotation. Whereas the prime concern of Christian understanding is to bring back the fragmentd humanity to experience wholeness growth. Liberation is one of the aspect in redeeming wholeness, says Clinebell. However, fundamenta lism and Casteism opposes the liberation aspect. But in resolving the conflict, the counsellor need to bring the counslee into the sense of liberation to attain Wholeness.Building the community of ShalomFinally, the pastoral response to Caste conflict as conflict resolution is building the community of peace and harmony. The major hindrance of Fundamentalism and Casteism is their approach with humanity and society. These both compartmentalise the society and break the human relationship. The stratified system of the society on the basis of Law code of Manu, had not only divided the Indian Society but also created enmity. Whwn God creted, he wanted that the creation to live harmoniously. Whereas the present situation goes pinnacle down. However, the conflict resolution needs to build the community not to destroy.ConclusionFundamentalism is of following strictly the teachings and tradition of a religion. Whereby, the existence of Caste system demonstrates that the root of the Casteis m comes from the Indian religious traditions and Hindu philosophy. No one can deny, both these issues are interrelated by their idealogy too after it has been discussed broadly in this paper. Nevertheless, these evil practices not only helped the seeds of conflict to grow but also claimed many lives in order to satisfy its thirst. Hence, the role of a Christian minister or Counsellor is crucial at this juncture. If a Chritian misiter give totally for the sake of building the shalom community, hope the kingdom of God will be rooted on this earth. For concluding this paper, it will probably be worth quoting Dyanchnad Carrs statements. in the cse of local and micro level conflicts the hurt memories do play an important role both in keeping alive the dormant of volcano of resentment and anger as well as in fanning them into fires of conflagration. We need to do all we can diffuse the situation and bring about a reconciled peace.

EU’s Policy for Former Socialist States of Central Europe

EUs Policy for Former Socialist States of commutation europiumJosef Borocz on the Basis of the EUs Policy Toward Former Socialist States of rudimentary atomic number 63 Based on the Legacy of the Cold warIntegration of eastern axis vertebra states into the European northward (EU) has been markedly slow in comparison to its western sandwich counterparts. Borocz and Larry Woolf assert that the stagnant, near-blocking motion of Western European-dominated organizations such as the EU carries with it a sociological, longue-duree contingent, identified by the historical and intellectual alienation of Eastern Bloc nations as a pervading other as perceived from the mount of Enlightenment. While there is significant merit to this argument, the geopolitical realities facing EU expansion throughout the continent outweigh the human facilities of traditional discrimination. With conflicted parties considering Turkey in the periphery of EU rank, the paradox of exclusion through minimal memb ership as outlined by Borocz and Woolf lends more toward matters of security and economic development quite an than a notion as simplistic as the longue-duree facility of Eastern Europe as the other. Scholars such as Gale Stokes contend that inclusion of the Eastern Bloc brings more than just European unity, adding the need for new defense strategies as well as trade systems, the incorporation of which would require a degree of phased membership so as not to disrupt the development of existing EU member state economies. After considering both proponent and contrarian arguments to the longue-duree assertions of Borocz and Woolf, it becomes pellucid that the geopolitical ramifications of honorable Eastern Bloc integration outweigh the possibility of traditional exclusion.Borocz states firmly that it would be a mistake to attribute the European Unions evident reluctance, condescension, and aversion vis--vis one of its immediate neighbors solely to the recent legacy of the Cold War1. Though the menace of Communism and the burgeoning global influence of the Soviet Union and its satellite contemporaries during the Cold War certainly harvested alienation from the capitalist West, the specter of Eastern Europe as the other existed long before Stalin began the wage increase of the USSR as a world superpower. As Woolf states, the intellectual structures of half a century argon slow to efface themselves, but above all the opinion of Eastern Europe is much older than the Cold War, the distinction between East and West produced as a work of cultural creation, intellectual artifice, and ideological self-interest and self-pronunciation2. Borocz agrees, adding that as critical work on the history of European ideas shows, a rational-Western self-image has produced, since the Enlightenment, the notion of East Europeanness sic as a rudimentary, rustic and low-scale version of itself3. Where France, Germany, and England found themselves exploring philosophy, trade, and sci ence, the common Western perception of the East developed as a darker side of Europe, one bordering the outside forces of Africa and Asia. All this developed despite the military swear out of nations such as Austria and Spain preventing the further advances of forces such as the Turks and the Moors, arguably leaving the remainder of Europe in the peace required to become enlightened. Such alienation, Woolf argues, little by little pushed Eastern Europe indirectly, lumping its association in such a way that Eastern Europe became an intermediary between Asia and Western Europe. The East was therein wasted further, diminished in intellectual capacity to the perceived barbarities of the non-European world. The concept of the East was therefore manufactured intellectually by Western European nations, a facial expression of alienation due to the proximity to and exchange with non-European countries. Future admission of the Hungarian (Polish, Czech, Slovene, etc) society to full member ship in European Union as peer sic partners would thus require no less than the erasure and re-inscription of an over two-hundred year-old image of West European identity construction, a lofty goal to achieve in the relatively small period of cartridge clip in which deliberation regarding membership would hence occur4. The human agent in such an action, the longue-duree proclivities of transcending centuries-old prejudice would therefore inculpate reimagining sic the weaker, ignored, belittled scientifically and officially apprehended and describedhence objectifiedother as a dynamic, inspiring, lively, and exciting partner characterized by a complex subjectiveness5. Such an adjustment in policy and personal perception would therefore facilitate the delay Borocz describes in his account of Hungarian attempts at EU membership. Adjustments of the aforesaid(prenominal) type paradoxically argon warranted by existing Western European member states, not the Eastern state in question app lying for EU membership. Borocz and Woolf theorize on the erstwhile definition of integration into the EU and the implications such an action would carry. Borocz concludes that the essence of the European Unions strategy vis--vis the central and eastern European applicants is integration without inclusion, participation in the production systems, and appendance to the consumption markets of EU corporations without the attendant political, economical, social, and cultural rights conferred by European Union citizenship6. That the Eastern Bloc is aware of this shabbiness suggests the acceptance of said fact, returning the EU as an organization to a reincarnation of Enlightenment-era prejudice, exclusion, and exploitation. The concept of Europeanness here would be nominal at best, as Eastern Europe would be included at face value, never accepted as a contemporary of its Western counterpart.Appendini and Bislev argue in their Integration in NAFTA and the EU that the phenomenon of Europe an integration is reminiscent of the classical historical process of state and nation building as perceived from European history a set of regulations being established for a territory (an expanding one, but at each moment precisely defined)7. Contrary to Boroczs observation of deliberate Western procrastination in the acceptance of Eastern membership, Appendini and Bislev suggest the vast requisite regulations which would ensure stable integration into the existing EU framework take time to implement, and suggest that the dismissal of the necessary implementation procedures would compromise the legitimacy of Eastern bloc membership, hence reducing membership to the aforementioned paradoxical state Woolf and Borocz describe. approximately prominent among the issues faced by Western Europe were addressed by Denmark, who, despite descriptions of being the most knowledgeable and well-informed about European matters, are just about the most negatively inclined towards integration owing to the question of the welfare state, broadly defined8. The relative economic underdevelopment of the Eastern Bloc, from a macro-economical standpoint, would beg the question of monetary compromise on the part of Western member states. At which point would European integration serve existing members? The longue-duree reflection of political weight here manifests itself in the conceptualization of matter discourse and the common interest formed by the EU. If the EU serves as a actor to galvanize the continent in matters of policy and economic decision-making, at which point would Eastern European interests counterbalance and take precedence over the interests of Western Europe? The integration of Eastern member states would have to provide at the very least the authorisation to benefit existing Western members.Moving past fiscal issues brings to the forefront the question of protocol in the realm of geopolitical and global security realities. Gale Stokes suggests that nation in clusion opens borders, creating the need for new defenses and changes in strategy for instance, Poland and the Baltic nations are still redefining their defense strategies in the wake of the Warsaw Pacts dissolution9. The integration of most Eastern Bloc states would include the trying burden of having to create a new national defense policy, conceivably overshadowed by the added weight of having to develop national welfare and infrastructure building to extend to EU standards10. Were these nations able to achieve such goals independent of the EU, they would already have done so, begging the question of the true value of integration. In adopting Western Europes particular set of basic values and beliefs regarding nationhood, popular sovereignty and democracy, Eastern states would provide the Western EU members with added stresses, disrupting the function of an already uncertain establishment. From a security standpoint, Western states would be naturally apprehensive of the geopoli tical changes and new threats that have emerged since the Cold War in this sense, Boroczs assertions of Western hesitation would be justified. The conflict in Bosnia, for example, is a quintessential example of the types of wars that deter most aligned countries from seeking full integration, as Western Europe was intent at the end of WWII to avoid such explosive territorial, ethnic, or religious conflicts11. Lengthy but legitimizing measures such as the temporal associate-member status of the Eastern Bloc are regulations asserted to be superior to others legitimacy can only be attempted through the decision-making mechanisms established in existing EU membership protocol12. Gale Stokes notes Lithuanian Defense Minister Andrius Butkevicius hierarchy of threats, citinginstability in the former USSR, followed by ethno-religious and territorial conflicts, followed by crime and industrial disasters. With the threat of high-intensity conflicts unlikely in the compact run, nations face s ubtler threats, including disaster-relief operations, peace operations, international crime and drug trafficking, illegal migration, and terrorism. The escalation of such threats to regional conflicts is a threat to long-term security for the EU as a whole13.Since Borocz crafted his article, various Eastern Bloc nations have begun their integration into the EU. Their experiences, however, should be duly noted in modern issues such as Turkish ascension and the political ramifications of European inclusion of states such as Serbia and Croatia. Assertions of longue-duree such as those intimated by Borocz and Woolf are not necessarily negated by Eastern admittance (albeit partial) to the EU the potential still exists for furthered exploitation, as full membership is contingent on Western attitudes and political action. Theoretically speaking, Eastern nations are never fully guaranteed equality in such integration ironically, unity seems to be a concept extending only to those who have t he political and economical clout to take the steps to make it a reality. The modicum of exclusion still existing in the minds of Western Europe limit the EUs scope and function, as it is probably not going to be a nation-state in the classical sense owing to the fragmented and disperse elements of European identities preventing the assembly of anything resembling even a modest version of a national identity14. The associate membership Borocz describes still has the potential to retard the EUs abilities to function as a cohesive whole15. While the policies of the EU whitethorn not be largely based on an isolated perception of the Cold War Eastern Bloc nations, the essence of the EU strategy remains integration without full inclusion, the fact remains that a degree of inequity will pervade the EUs future functions and day-to-day dealings on the global stage. The degree of integration and the increment steps coerced upon Eastern member ascension therefore remains in the eye of the be holder, so to speak for the optimist lustiness to believe in the potential of integration, the inequity of the present is attributed to a genuine concern for the future. To the cynic, however, the remarkably slow process of integration and Western Europes modern policies smack of the prejudiced perceptions of old.BIBLIOGRAPHYAppendini, Kirsten A. and Sven Bislev (eds). (1999) Integration in NAFTA and the EUDeficient Institutionality. Basingstoke Hampshire Palgrave Macmillan.Borocz, Josef. (2000) The fox and the raven the European Union and Hungaryrenegotiate the margins of Europe, pp. 77-83.Goldman, Minton F. (1997) Revolution and Change in Central and Eastern EuropePolitical, Economic, and Social Challenges. Armonk ME Sharpe, Inc.Nabli, Mustapha K. (1999) Financial Integration, Vulnerabilities to Crisis, and EUAccession in Five Central European Countries. Washington, DC World Bank P.Schimmelfennig, Frank. (2003) The EU, NATO, and the Integration of Europe Rulesand Rhetoric. Cambri dge Cambridge U P.Stokes, Gale. (1998) one-year Survey of Eastern Europe and the Former Soviet Union1997, The Challenge of Integration. Armonk ME Sharpe, Inc.Tang, Helena. (2000) Winners and Losers in EU Integration Policy Issues for Centraland Eastern Europe. Washington, DC World Bank P.Woolf, Larry. (1994) pp. 1-6.1Footnotes1 Borocz 2000, p. 792 Woolf 1994, p. 13 Ibid4 Borocz 2000, p. 815 Ibid6 Borocz 2000, pp. 81-827 Appendini and Bislev 1999, p. 1268 Ibid9 Stokes 1998, p. 13010 Ibid11 Ibid12 Appendini and Bislev 1999, p. 12613 Stokes 1998, p. 13114 Appendini and Bislev 1999, p. 12615 Borocz 2000, pp. 81-82

Definition of Research and Research Methodology

Definition of Research and Research MethodologyIn this section of study, components apply to answer look into questions and the methodology constructed to analyse those procedures be justified based on writings reviewed. Consequently, special emphasis is provided to other methods of look and the rationale tail assembly them for not being pendanted to be part of this exploration. However, constituent of seek philosophy, research strategy and element of research design and research procedure be dealt in detail to offer maximum credibility to decisive findings. Besides, through pop the chapter ethical considerations break gained great substance allowing results to be analysed with immense attention.Research is used to pull in a number of similar and overlapping activities relating a search for information. It is something that people infratake in order to find things out in a dogmatic way, thereby increasing their association (Saunders et al. 2009). According to Kothar i (2004), endeavour of both research is to uncover the concealed reality that is yet to be exposed or revealed. However, research is constantly used to solve organizational problems through systematic strategies (Ojo, 2008).Foundations of research are built and conducted over a structure called methodology (Remenyi et al. 1998) and a sound study will always adapt encouraging research methodology (Buckley et al. 1975). Hence, it is decisively fundamental to deploy quint inborn methodology with great care and systematic agreement of the intricacies involved (Amaratunga et al. 2002). In this particular piece of study, efforts are made to discover the factors that lead to push roughly at workplace with special emphasis on heathen browbeat. Intentions of this research were to illustrate, appreciate, anticipate, criticize and interpret the existing social science phenomenon (Maylor Blackmon, 2005) by systematically inject uping entropy to solve research problem (Ghauri Gronh aug, 2005).3.3 Methodological Considerations3.3.1 Preconceptions and set up of referenceGenerally research questions are derived from preconceptions. When study tastes respond to these questions they react divergently with reality (Lundahl Skarvad, 1992). Meanwhile, frame of reference formed in the minds of people collectable to preconceptions, repeatedly affect on findings of both research either directly or indirectly. Johansson Lindfors (1993) writes there are three major aspects to be considered in perceptions epistemological perceptions, Common perceptions and Theoretical perceptions.Temporarily, epistemological perception is a method used to explain the knowledge in the form of theories (Fisher, 2004). Thus, it is obligatory to know the acceptable knowledge of any discip moving in (Bryman Bell, (2003). While formation of common perception are developed through individualal experience or firsthand information poised from work or studies, Theoretical preconceptions pro vide an opportunity to appraise a range of views attained through various(a) theories of academic sources, books, journals, articles, and magazines. To be precise they are impractical to compile through personal experience (Johansson Lindfors, 1993).3.3.2 Research Philosophy and administrationGiven that the research philosophy transmits the enlargement of knowledge and its temperament, chosen research philosophy ought to answer all the research questions in actual fact (Saunders et al. 2009). A lot of epochs research philosophy inculcated will manipulate the tec views and the methods that are chosen to construct research strategy. But, within the context of social science there is an uncompleted argument to pick the most suitable sit from the excessive horizons of positivism to the extreme end of interpretivism (Smith et al. 1991). However, research philosophy is further in the main classified into three major categories Positivism, Interpritivism and Pragmatism or Realism.Core regulations of any cash advance are authentic/perceptual knowledge and hermeneutics (Johansson Lindfors, 1993) which constantly travel in opposite directions to each other (Andersson, 1979). While authentic/perceptual knowledge or positivism represents phenomenon of a discipline through quantifiable observations (Dayarathna, 2009), hermeneutics interprets the same social components through qualitative observations (Saunders et al. 2007). Under positivism there is a hypothesis of cause effect relation that discount be confirmed or rejected (Patel Davidsson, 2003). Here, values of detective and phenomenon of the study are clearly distinguished with a rule or law helping the researcher to observe reality. Whereas in interpritivism, this rule or law doesnt exist thereby making it viable for the researcher to involve in the process (Hartman, 2004) by allowing him/her to interpret the work at any desired stage in any desired ways to obtain complete knowledge.The philosophy adopted he re is believed to express both positivism and interpritivism. Objective methods are used to measure properties of externally existing social solid ground and are not subjectively attached through sensation, reflection or intuition (Smith et al. 2008). Hence, working with an observable social reality and the product of such research chamberpot be law-like generalizations similar to those products by natural and physical scientists. (Rememyi et al. 1998, pp. 32). For the moment, Interviews and self administered questionnaires are used here to gather the implored data by emphasising on both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection.The objectives of researchTo discover different sources of heathenishal minority bullying at workTo inspect diverse forms of heathenish minority bullying at workTo find out primal causes that leads to ethnic minority bullying at workTo expose effects of bullying on ethnic minority employees at workTo observe reactions of ethnic minority e mployees to unhealthy practices bullying at workTo realize various defensive attitude mechanisms developed by ethnic minority employees to pr reddent from being bullied at workTo examine the management/managers perspectives on ethnic minority bullying at workTo suggest recommendations to pr blusht ethnic minority bullying at workA range of problems will be encountered throughout practical murder of the witness or research administration (Rowley, 2002). To avoid these inadequacies, study should infuse the objectives that are measure driven. Concurrently all the aims of research cannot completely revolve around human interests and beliefs (Smith et al 2008). Because, qualitative approaches lots fail to reproduce commonality of the results (Sekaran, 2003). In such situations quantitative approaches appears such(prenominal) more meticulous.3.3.3 Research strategy unremarkably intentions of research invade strategy, where time, resources, philosophy and approaches play a greater role . But, there will always be an element of deduction in any token of studies underinterpreted (Ticehurst Veal, 2000), thereby persuading the researcher to be selective towards the data unavoidable or the data gathered. However, quantitative strategy is a method of data collection under deductive approach where data will be accumulated through survey questionnaires and acquired data will be analysed through statistical methods. Sub-sequentially deductive approach always helps in verifying or discarding a hypothesis by assembling and quantifying data (Dayarathna, 2009). Being objective and scientific in its nature this strategy is considered to be black and white method ascribable to its lack of consideration with the results (Bryman Bell, 2003). Owing to positivism deductive approach is used for this study.Although there are various types of research strategy, general and business research rely more upon survey based strategy (Saunders et al. 2009). Because, the techniques applie d here to collect data largely account on draw a bead on of the study, intensity of the problem, information required and the availability of time, money and human resources (Ghauri Gronhaug, 2005). Indeed, under this strategy data can be gathered in three different forms personal hearings, survey questionnaires and telephone interviews (Bernard, 2006) and for the current project, personal interviews and survey questionnaires are used to extract required information.As part of quantitative analysis, a self administered questionnaire will be sent to the ethnic minority employees working in the organization to extract maximum information on ethnic minority bullying, and the sources, causes, and forms that leads to bullying behaviour. Personal interviews will also be used as part of study to know the receptions of the employees to bullying manners and the measures anticipated by them in abolishing ethnic minority bullying at workplace thereby fulfilling the requirements of qualit ative analysis.First section of the survey questionnaire consist of five basic or personal information questions Age, Gender, Job Level, Ethnicity and Work Experience and in the second section of the questionnaire, eleven close ended and three string out ended questions were asked snap more on bullying and ethnic bullying at work. Especially, Open ended questions were used to present employees with an opportunity to express their genuine ideas and thoughts almost the subject without any barrier. Primarily, all questions of the study were designed and uploaded to an online survey portal SurveyPirate with a note in the beginning of the questionnaire clearly stating the purpose and objectives of the survey in brief. Later, wed of the portal leading to questionnaire was downloaded and delivered to the respondents by emails with the help of Vice President-HR, ABB. India.Constructive nature of qualitative method makes it central to understand respondents views and how they generate me aning in an diligent manner (Maxwell, 2005). To involve interview approach as part of study researcher has to be genuinely open in his perspective. As nature of the project demanded a qualitative approach to explore the unquenched myriads of ethnic bullying, a prior prepared semi-structured interview questions were also used during the study along with quantitative methods of data collection (Saunders et al. 2003). Personal interview conducted with the managers during the project will help in understanding the mangers perspective towards existing ethnic bullying practices and the problems caused by them. Furthermore, it also serves in recognizing the policies and measures implemented by both organization and the government to address these unpleasant and unfavourable workplace traditionsBy making use of qualitative or interview methods, analysis of the report gains a comprehensive and exclusive edge over other similar explorations undertaken on bullying. As it lend a hand in gath ering valid and reliable information relevant to the questions and objectives of the research (Kahn Cannell, 1957), it becomes easier to compare the outcomes of the study to the theoretical frameworks ethnic bullying. Under qualitative method understanding between the author, respondents and the subjects will be on much higher grounds than other approaches of data accumulation (Bryman Bell, 2003) because Interview is nothing but a conversation or exchange of views and ideas between two people on a topic of mutual interest (Kvale, 1996).In order to chance upon the aims of the study eight managers from different department were interviewed with prior appointment. The ambitions behind interviewing managers were to bring broader viewpoint to the observations made and to explore the problem on macro levels. All the interviews were carried out as per the semi-structured questionnaire designed with in the time limit allotted. Despite all the above precautions qualitative methods can be very subjective and the final outcomes could involve element of prejudice due to preconceptions (Patel Davidsson, 2003).Semi-structured QuestionnaireQ1. Is ethnic minority bullying at workplace a major issue in your organization? Why do think so?Q2. What fit to you are the major reasons that ignite and magnify ethnic minority bullying in your organization?Q3. In what form does the bullying take place in your organization and who are people that are often involved in the bullying practice?Q4. Have any staffs of yours left their job or taken time off work in the past six months? If yes, what were their reasons for leaving?Q5. How do the employees react in your organization when are being bullied?Q6. How do you getup ethnic minority bullying in your organization?Q7. In your opinion what are the crucial factors that might lessen the likelihood of ethnic minority bullying in your organization?Q8. Does your organization make any efforts to prevent ethnic minority bullying? What are yo ur views?Q9. Does your organization provide counselling services for bullied employees? If yes, how powerful are they?3.4 Research DesignAccording to Gauri and Gronhaug, (2005, pp. 56), The research design is the overall plan for relating the conceptual research problem to relevant and practicable empirical research. It is an important method used by the authors, in order to answer research questions (Saunders el al. 2007) and any design under the control of researcher will reach more flexibility in terms of valuable information. Meanwhile, there are four major types research design exploratory, inductive, and casual descriptive (Zikmund, 2003) and the most purloin way to get solutions to the research problems is through exploratory design (Zikmund, 2003).In exploratory design, researcher will have a weak idea about the problems as they are defined very poorly. But, the moment author starts accumulating relevant information the entire picture becomes brighter and better thereby s upporting to find better solutions to the problems (Gauri Gronhaug, 2005). On the other hand, inductive design employs various theories built on observation. Diverse approaches are carried over for deliberating and pursuing these observations. Justified theory emerging out of these observations will further aid in discovering appropriate solutions to the research problems. Although casual research is better structured than the other designs of research, cause and effect relationship is often confronted. In fact, during majority of instances it becomes very easy to predict the final results evolving from the changes incorporated (Nargundkar, 2003).Nonetheless, in contrary to the explorative method, problems are well defined under descriptive design. Thus researcher can start assembling secondary data associated to the problem instantaneously. In some circumstances, where there is a scarcity or absence seizure of resources author will have attempt to collect data through different d ata collection techniques (Gauri Gronhaug, 2005).The research design used for this project is descriptive approach where a concrete problem is identified and defined by exploiting secondary sources of data existing. It is frequently used to depict precise silhouette of person/persons events and situations (Robson, 2002). Since research question is a problem which necessitate further investigation to formulate anticipated results (Bjereld et al, 2002), question for the current study is derived from the area of interest. Passable number of study samples are involved right through the process and unbiased measurements are practiced to execute and report about on project. Given that the consume is important in this form of research, survey questionnaires and interviews are included with definite time limits.3.5. Research Process and Procedure3.5.1 Sources of dataSources of data are broadly classified in two categories, primary and secondary. According to Parasuraman et al. (2004) pri mary data are the information collected for the first time to bring about any explicit needs of a particular research. They are the firsthand descriptions represented by research reports, published in a scientific journal or periodical to reflect on the observations performed by the researcher (Gravetter Forzano, 2008). Furthermore, they also facilitate authors to illustrate their research by answering and substantiating against the questions or un definiteties rose during the progress of investigation. Like, why and how study was undertaken, what results were found, and how those results were interpreted. However, course of primary data collection entail a range of diverse means. They are, personal or emails based survey questionnaires, slip to face or telephone interviews, observations and focus groups (Ghauri Gronhaug, 2005).Primary data is often more consistent with the research questions and objectives. Under this method of data gathering questions can be formed both formal and informal ways (Parasuraman et al. 2004). Yet, success of this approach relay largely upon the capabilities of the researcher, who pose the questions to the respondents (Bryman Bell, 2003). Major downside of this data source is that they require ample amount of time and may consume lot of money (Malhotra Bricks, 2007). Since the researcher is completely dependent on the willingness and ability of the respondents, at times it becomes very hard to approach respondents (Kanikapati, 2007).Secondary data is detailed information accessed by the researcher through other available sources of information to obtain thorough literature review. In fact, most of the studies begin in that fashion (Kanikapati, 2007). It is a second hand report where the observations of different authors will be discussed by the researcher to accomplish aspired objectives (Gravetter Forzona, 2008). Generally secondary information is of high standards (Bryman Bell, 2003) and fundamentally used to understand a nd explain research problems better. Secondary source of data is very easy to extract and available in plenty through, books, magazines, journals, articles, websites and etc. More importantly it is inexpensive and time saving but, its basic nature of collection for different purposes during different time span with different objectives makes it less effective to robust into present study.In this project, a combination of both sets of data are used achieve maximum results. Since the objective of the research is to observe whether, membership of an ethnic minority plays a greater role in work place bullying? A satisfying role is played by the primary data as it is directly accumulated from the employees in the ABB, UK. All over the study secondary data have been utilized to explore literature on the consequence of bullying, workplace bullying and ethnicity bullying. Majority of the data pertaining to study have been collected trough books, magazines, journals, websites and articles.3 .5.2 Direction-finderOpportunity of all(prenominal) large study requires to be tested on a smaller sample sizing before execution. Direction-finder or pilot study will assist in inspecting the pros and cons of extensive process to be accomplished further. According to Saunders et al. (2007) questionnaires needed to be experimented on a limited population, to assess the difficulties that might encounter in answering the questionnaire and while recording data. By doing so, researcher can make certain that the collected data is valid and reliable. Conversely, pilot study is also essential to realise that the collected data answer all the research questions, easy to scrutinize and findings of the study are valuable (Smith et al, 1991).In the meantime, a direction-finder test was conducted to 4 employees of the Lebara organization, UK to investigate accuracy of questionnaire in extracting require data and their precision in gauging ethnic bullying factors in ABB, UK. Pilot process not o nly helped in understanding whether the respondents have interpreted the research questions as the same way they are intended to but, made the author realise that there were lot of concerns pertaining to open ended questions. However, a few of them were later modified or replaced with close ended ones.3.5.3 Time horizonsAt the outset, collection of samples was planned for the Month of July 2010 but shortly it was rescheduled to October 2010. Soon there were Christmas holidays to follow in the Month of December 2010 decision was made to distribute questionnaires in the Month of October to capture a balanced response as highlighted by Saunders (2007).3.6 Research Context3.6.1 Obtaining permissionTo obtain data, a request letter (Annexure) drafted by the researcher explaining the purpose of the study and the types of data required was sent to the Manager-Human Resource of ABB, UK through Vice President of ABB, India. Mr Rajesh Kumar Roy (Vice President ABB, India), who happens to be previous employer of the researcher accepted the request and recommended the proposal for further consideration. This was later ratified by the respected authorities of ABB in UK.3.6.2 Sample sizeMulti-cultural or ethnic diverse nature of the research topic encouraged the researcher to aim ABB, UK for sample selection. Since the organization has its branches in more than 100 countries, mobility of ethnic centred employees within the company will be abundant. And this movement of work strong point will be much more effective in UK because of its versatility. As it is impractical to survey the entire ethnic minority staff of ABB, UK due to time and budget constraints, a sample of 120 employees that represents the entire ethnic minority population of the organization was viewed as satisfactory for the quantitative method of study (Saunders et al, 2007). But, when it was realised that whole ABB labour force in UK consists approximately 8% of ethnic minority employees, the numbers of s ample numbers were further reduced to 92 by considering 50% of the total ethnic minority workers (8% of 2300 is 184 and 50% of 184 is 92). On the other hand, qualitative research requires very limited number unlike quantitative approach (Miles Hubermann, 1994). Thus it is restricted to 8 members from four different locations (Daresbury Park Warrington, 9 Moorbrook Park Didcot, Park House Eastern Avenue Burton-on-Trent and Unit 15 Peddie Street Dundee).3.6.3 Sampling techniques and selection extract of appropriate sample is the key in both qualitative and quantitative procedures of research (Maxwell, 2005). There are two major types of taste techniquesProbability sampling or representative sampling Since they reflect the characteristics of the population, they often provide the most valid or credible results. But, they are expensive, time consuming and require certain level of skill sets to perform (Adamchak et al. 2000). However, under probability sampling every element has a chance of being selected and the selected elements probability can be calculated. both variation between the elements is only a matter of chance as there is no bias involved (Adamchak et al. 2000).Non-probability or systematic sampling though these methods are more elastic, cheap and require very limited time span, they are less desirable than probability samples due to their weaker evaluation and outcomes (Adamchak et al. 2000). But, their validity can be increased by approximating random section, and eliminating sources of bias. Here the elements are obtained on the basis of opportunity, judgement and referrals from other sample subjects (Adamchak et al. 2000).Probability sampling technique or procedure cannot be employed for this research because the population of the study is well defined. Therefore, systematic stratified sampling method is used to represent all the ethnic minority employees of ABB, UK without any discrimination.3.6.4 Non response biasNon response rate of any study depend upon sensitivity of the subject, clarity of objectives and level of confidentiality. However, anonymous questionnaires always make love high response rates. Hence, a covering letter (Annexure) stating purpose of the study was attached to the questionnaire to attract soaring response rates. Meanwhile, questions of the survey were kept anonymous to commute the respondents that the data collected will be treated with confidentiality (Sekaran, 2003).3.6.5 Response rateRespondents interests vary depending upon the type of research being conducted. Response rates tend to be very high among educational oriented studies. However, according to Saunders et al. (2007) satisfactory response rate of a research lies between 30% 40% and they could become even lesser when a topic is more sensitive and hard to relate. Meanwhile, unbiased approaches and ethical considerations might boost response rates despite all obstacles and hardships that could come in between. For the current re search 92 survey questionnaires were distributed and 72 returned back. So the total response rate for this project was 78.26%. Non-response rate for the project was 21.74% and the core reasons for non-response could be refusal to become a part of the study or reluctant to answer all the questions (Dayarathna, 2009).3.6.7 Rejected methodsEven though, focus groups are the supreme means of understanding through exchange of ideas within a group. They are not involved in the study due to their unfeasible nature. They are boring and often attempted in bringing the group together under a single roof. Moreover, they dont provide sufficient time to the respondents during group discussions (Parasuraman et al. 2004).3.7 Ethical ConsiderationsIssues pertaining to ethics of the study find throughout research starting from formulation of research question, till presenting results. According to Saunders et al. (2007), they arrive in five stages topic selection, designing and gaining access, coll ecting data, processing and storing data and during analysing and revealing findings.To begin with, access to data collection was attained by drafting a formal request letter to the concerned authority explaining the purpose of the study. When the access was granted a covering latter was prepared addressing respondents of the study ensuring that the data collected will be kept confidential and will be used only for the academic purpose. Anonymous questions were formed to conceal the identity of the individual participants (Smith et al. 1991) making it hard for other to recognise separately.To avoid personal bias and to add credibility and validity to the report research was conducted with minimum intervention. Collected observations are carefully analysed and results presented without any manipulations. All the secondary sources used for the study are recognised and acknowledged.3.8 Limitations of the StudyLimitations are often accompanied by the element of human factor. Like any ot her general and social research even this research escort certain amount of boundaries to its procedure, scope and applicability. Firstly, Very limited numbers of open ended questions are used in the study and the ones that are used with the help of qualitative approach can make the results of the project biased (Patel Davidsson, 2003) by reflecting lack of transparency (Brayman Bell, 2003). Secondly, Closed ended questions used in the study might have restricted the respondents from indentifying various others factors that encourage workplace bullying. Finally, there will always be a problem of time, money and resources when a particular study is undertaken.3.9 ConclusionComprehensive discussion about methodology for the selected study was presented in the above chapter to justify tactics incorporated is in line with the topic chosen. Deployment of deductive approach and addition of positivism and interpritivism were proved to be appropriate for the research due to various reason s as illustrated. Sampling procedures, sampling techniques and the size of samples were also explained along with the data collection methods, ethical considerations and limitations of the project. In the next chapter results of the research will be evaluated in detail.