Change of Audit Regulations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland Research Paper

Change of Audit Regulations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland - Research Paper Example The primary objectives of APB are to establish high standards of financial auditing, assess & meet the continuously developing need of end users of the financial information and to achieve confidence of the public in the auditing process of the nation. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is established primarily to support the confidence of investors, the market and the general public in the financial & corporate governance of listed companies & such other entities. FRC is accountable to monitor, enforce & govern compliance to the auditing standards developed and published by APB. APB supports FRC by setting high-quality standards & guidelines to achieve high performance of external audits by external auditors by virtue of their independence, objectivity and integrity. APB is also accountable to enhance the public understanding of  the roles & responsibilities of external auditors. APB is also accountable for recommending essential changes in the audit regulations which are later communicated via their free newsletters published through their website. Looking back in the History, UK Auditing Standards were originally developed by the Accounting Practices Committee (APC) that were established in 1976 and were in operation till 1991. In 1991, the Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies (CCAB) established the Auditing Practices Board (APB) that took over the accountability to develop & publish the Auditing Standards of UK and Republic of Ireland. APB was taken over by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) in 2004 such that it became a subsidiary board of the FRC. Since December 2004, after FRC has taken over APB, the audit standards in the UK & Republic of Ireland are being adopted from the consultation by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB). The Standards thus published are the International Standards modified to be applied in UK & Ireland and hence are named as ISA (UK & Ireland).

Classical Period and Romantic Period Research Paper

Classical Period and Romantic Period - Research Paper Example When we talk about classical music it is important to know that the term is applicable to music that was composed in a particular style from the 1740s to 1820. The composition of music during these years comprised of a distinct sense of proportion. Initially it was somewhat difficult for listeners to derive pleasure and enjoyment from, however after a certain time the music began to dominate their music preferences. Initially the perception modern listeners have of the classical era is that it was either too serious or plain music; however to the listeners in that era, the music was unique and very different from that of the Baroque era. The key distinction between classical era and that of the Baroque era was that the classical music had more variety when it came to divergent rhythms throughout a piece. Melodies which were introduced in the classical era were a lot more balanced, easier to sing and to remember. It was in this era that numerous nursery songs were written. It was in t he classical era that the social function of music started to evolve from that of its prior aristocratic and religious affiliations towards the public and secular sphere with its middle class connections. The gradual increase in public concerts, the growth of commercial opera houses, the increase of publishing of music, and the increase in the number of musical pieces that were composed as well as played were all implications of the change in musical times. Form was of critical importance to the composers of the classical era, and this period had a lasting effect as far as form is concerned, especially when it came to the various instrumental music forms. Previously composers had already begun to pay special attention to the various musical instruments and their capabilities. Hence the move to writing not just solo music for one specific instrument, but focusing on music which had mixed ensembles with a variety of instruments. The modern orchestra was of key importance here. It was in the classical era that the common instruments like the toccata, concerto grosso, and fugue became replaced by forms which had matured as a result of the classical period. This is where the roots of the sonata, concerto and symphony can be traced. Even though each of these forms had significant precursors prior to the classical era, but it is this version of the form that came to become the most influential through the course of the other following eras, the romantic and modern era, and even today it is still highly recognized by a multitude of art music audience and performers (Jones, 2006). Among the many kinds of music of this period, the classical era is well known for symphonies, which is a type of a large orchestral ensemble. These pieces of symphonies primarily had three movements; the first of these was the sonata, followed by the minuet, and the finale. Taking inspirations from earlier composers, Haydn and Mozart took symphonies to their peak in the late 18th century. Whi le Haydn concentrated on achieving rhythmic excellence and the composition of theme based music Mozart contributed to the symphonies by a contrast of memorable lyric themes which made use of a full sounding orchestral settings (Roger, 2008). To cater to the middle-class, classic composers came up with a ton on new chamber music which made use of a magnitude of combinations. The piano sonata became one of the important forms of chamber music. This was mainly after the refinement it received at the hands of composers like Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven. The string quartet played an

Human Rights in China Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Human Rights in China - Essay Example This includes the region of Tibet bordering India which is linked with an independence movement from the mainland. Any reference to the breakaway island of Taiwan as being an independent entity, not under the jurisdiction of the Chinese mainland is further frowned upon and punished by the state (Zhongguo 193). Even the internet is said to be heavily moderated with content that supports Taiwan or the Free Tibet Movement being censored and violations of viewer ship being brutally punished with torture and other means so as to deter the population. It is public knowledge that the Chinese authorities use Microsoft, Yahoo and other companies to filter the use of certain words such as "Democracy" and other words deemed offensive by the authorities from Chinese chat rooms and instant messaging software (Gunther). Thus it is contended that the government interferes with the basic human right of freedom of speech and expression for its citizens and does not allow free ideas to float. The second major category of allegations against China regarding human rights violations relates to freedom of movement for its citizens. Since the formation of the People's Republic of China by Mao Ze Dong, the state has initiated a program of restricting where its citizens could stay and work. This was regulated utilizing a residency permit system whereby citizens were defined according to their geographical area and encouraged to stay in particular places (MacLeod). It further kept population divided between the urban and rural areas such that the problems accompanying rapid urbanization do not plague China. The allegations put against China are that it deliberately tries to stop the free movement of its citizens, with those wanting to...The second major category of allegations against China regarding human rights violations relates to freedom of movement for its citizens. Since the formation of the People’s Republic of China by Mao Ze Dong, the state has initiated a progr am of restricting where its citizens could stay and work. This was regulated utilizing a residency permit system whereby citizens were defined according to their geographical area and encouraged to stay in particular places (MacLeod). It further kept population divided between the urban and rural areas such that the problems accompanying rapid urbanization do not plague China. The allegations put against China are that it deliberately tries to stop the free movement of its citizens, with those wanting to move to urban areas or different provinces being punished in terms of less grain rations etc. This leads to the creation of a society where the rural workers are treated as second class citizens and a system akin to the South African apartheid (MacLeod). It undoubtedly helps the People’s Republic of China in controlling the problem of rapid urbanization and also helps regulate wage rates to some extent but it denies Chinese citizens the choice to move as they please and hence this restrictive system is a violation of fundamental human rights. Another chief point raised against China is that of marginalization of its rural population. This discriminates against people of various religions who because of their beliefs can not take part in political affairs and it closes an important avenue for them.

Land Use in Pinchot Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Land Use in Pinchot - Lab Report Example resulted in a decrease in the population of the predator/prey ecosystem while the 50% and 75% fragmentation created a more distorted distribution of the species. This shows that the hypothesis should be accepted. It was observed that increasing fragmentation is directly proportional to the increase in abundance of the Spiny Firegrass (SFG) and Elk population. The wolf and bluebunch wheatflower (BBWF) population remained constant at 0% and 25% fragmentation and drastically dropped at 50% and 75% fragmentation. The addition of the BBWF, elk and wolf created a more balanced ecosystem in the 0%, 25% and 50% fragmentation as affected by the hierarchy of the species in the trophic level (Moorecroft, n.d.). The increasing fragmentation caused the increase in the abundance of the SFG because of the increased amount of direct sunlight brought about by deforestation. The habitat has become more favorable for the SFG, while unfavorable for the wolf and BBWF which take shelter and protection from the forest. Lindsey (2007) emphasized that deforestation directly makes the species depending on the forests vulnerable; and in this case, it will be the wolves and BBWF. The wolves can be considered the keystone species in the Pinchot ecosystem because the results obtained from the 75% fragmentation created a trophic cascade because there was a very small number of the higher level predator that will be able to control the number of the elks in the ecosystem (Moorecroft, n.d.). The observations gathered shows that the ecosystem is a top-down control of population dynamics. Deforestation and urban sprawl has a direct impact on the food web because these two activities endanger the higher level predator, causing a trophic cascade in the ecosystem (Moorecroft, n.d.). Deforestation provides a better habitat for the proliferation of SFG, and urban sprawl drives away the wolves that live in the woods, causing the increase in the elk population, and consequently depleting the

How to keep your body in a good shape Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

How to keep your body in a good shape - Essay Example However, one should only read that which has substantial depth and those that have mind stimulating qualities. It is also crucial to take time off cognitive activities to improve memory and other cognitive skills. This is concerning taking beaks and recesses from time to time, as they help in building one’s retention and attention span. This way, cognitive skills such as critical and logical thinking remain sharp at all times and boosts quick learning. This works hand in hand with improved task coordination, concentration, and planning. Physically, it is crucial to keep the body in good shape through physical exercises as they increase the flow of blood in the body. The first and easiest way to keep one’s body physically in shape is taking a walk in the yard or walking the dog, if you have one (Templeton). Moreover, Yoga and tai chi are good techniques for keeping the mind in motion and stretching respectively. These physical exercises not only keep the mind and blood flow active, but also ward off certain illnesses, which include Alzheimers and dementia, as well as signs of aging. This occurs due to the relationship between the brain and the cardiovascular system. The use of drugs has profound effects on our bodies concerning maintaining health. As a result, to remain in good shape it is in our best interests to control our ailments such as colds and other personality disorders without the use of drugs or medication. Because of this, the body does not develop dependency on the drugs and medication meaning that one can act and live normally in their absence. In addition, failure to use drugs cuts back on the risk of developing resistance for mainstream medication thus, boosting health. In addition, at times, drugs and medication result in treating symptoms and not the condition that one suffers from resulting in worsening of the condition. Finally, in case of safety, one should avoid

Organizational development Essay Example for Free

Organizational development Essay Although the main reasons people resist change is the fear of the unknown, breaking routines and incongruent team dynamics, organizational change is necessary if the organization is to remain competitive. Change is a combination of action orientation and research orientation†¦ but most importantly, every organization, whether large or small requires one or more change agents. Organizational development is a set of behavioral science based theories, values, strategies and technologies aimed at planned change of the organizational work setting for the purpose of enhancing individual development and improving organizational performance through the alteration of organizational members on the job behaviors† (Jex, Britt, 2007. ) Organizational change is necessary if the organization is to remain competitive. Social Psychologist, Kurt Lewin, developed the force field analysis model to help us understand how the change process works. One side of the force field model represents the driving forces that push organizations toward a new state of affairs. â€Å"There are driving forces in the external environment such as globalization, virtual work and a changing workforce. Within these external forces, corporate leaders create driving forces within the organization so the organization anticipates the external factors. Internal originated forces are difficult to apply because they lack external justifications, so effective transformational leadership as well as structural change mechanisms are necessary to legitimate and support internal driving forces†. The other side of Lewins model represents the restraining forces that maintain the status quo. Restraining forces are commonly called â€Å"resistance to change† (McShane VonGlinlow, 2008), because they appear as employee behaviors that block the change process. Stability will occur when these two forces are equal with each other but in opposite directions. The main reasons people resist change is fear of the unknown, breaking routines and incongruent team dynamics. According to Lewins force field analysis model â€Å"effective change occurs by unfreezing the current situation, moving to a desired condition and then refreezing the system so it remains in this desired state. Unfreezing occurs when the driving forces are stronger than the restraining forces. This happens by making the driving forces stronger, weakening or removing the restraining forces, or a combination of both† (McShane VonGlinlow, 2008) Creating urgency, which represent the driving forces for change, will push employees out of their comfort zones. Many of top management leaders will buffer their employees from external factors and the result is the employees do not understand the need for change and will resist. â€Å"Employees need to feel an urgency to change; which occurs by informing them about competitors, changing consumer trends, impending government regulations and other driving forces† (McShane VonGlinlow, 2008) Another way to fuel the urgency to change is by putting employees in direct contact with customers. Dissatisfied customers are a compelling driving force for change because of adverse consequences for the organizations survival and success. Exposing employees to external forces can also strengthen the urgency for change, but a leader needs to begin the change process before problems come knocking. â€Å"Creating an urgency for change when an organization is riding high requires a lot of persuasion and influence that helps employees visualize future competitive threats and environmental shifts† (McShane VonGlinlow, 2008) Effective change requires more than making employees aware of the driving forces. It involves reducing or removing the restraining forces. There are six ways to overcome employee resistance, communication, learning, employee involvement and stress management. American Industrialist Andrew Carnegie once said â€Å"take away my people and soon grass will grow on the factory floor, take away my factories but leave my people and soon we will have a new and better factory. †( Library of Congress, 2009) Organizations are not buildings, machinery or financial assets; they are the people in them. Organizations are human entities, full of life, sometimes fragile, always exciting.

Supply Chain Management and Distribution Centers Essay Example for Free

Supply Chain Management and Distribution Centers Essay 1. Wal-Mart has been able to achieve respectable leadership in the retail industry because of its focus on supply chain management. Discuss in detail the distribution and logistics system adopted by Wal-Mart. Ans : As the world’s largest retailer with net sales of almost $219 billion for the fiscal year 2002, Wal-Mart is considered a â€Å"best-in-class† company for its supply chain management practices. These practices are a key competitive advantage that have enabled Wal-Mart to achieve leadership in the retail industry through a focus on increasing operational efficiency and on customer needs Wal-Mart’s corporate website calls â€Å"logistics† and â€Å"distribution† the heart of its operation, one that keeps millions of products moving to customers every day of the year. Wal-Mart’s complete Supply chain is aligned to provide maximum value to its customers by Every day low prices in its Stores. Wal-Mart’s highly-automated distribution centers, which operate 24 hours a day and are served by Wal-Mart’s truck fleet, are the foundation of its growth strategy and supply network. In the United States alone, the company has more than 40 regional distribution centers for import flow and more than 140 distribution centers for domestic flow .When entering a new geographic arena, the company first determines if the area will be able to contain enough stores to support a distribution center. Each distribution center supports between 75 to 100 retail stores within a 250-mile area. Once a center is built, stores are gradually built around it to saturate the area and the distribution network is realigned to maximize efficiencies through a process termed â€Å"reoptimization†. The result is a â€Å"trickle-down† effect: trucks do not have to travel as far to retail stores to make deliveries, shorter distances reduce transportation costs and lead time, and shorter lead time means holding less safety inventory. If shortages do occur, replenishment can be made more quickly because stores receive daily deliveries from distribution centers. The company’s hub-and-spoke distribution network utilizes a system of manufacturer storage with customer pickup. No inventory is stored at Wal-Mart’s distribution centers. Wal-Mart’s fleet of 3,500 dedicated trucks and over 50,000 trailers are used to pick up goods directly from manufacturers’ warehous es, thus eliminating intermediaries and increasing responsiveness. The use of trucks raises transportation costs but is justified in terms of reduced inventory. Merchandise brought in by truck to distribution centers is sorted for delivery to stores within 24 to 48 hours. However, certain goods, such as automotive and drug products, are delivered directly to stores by suppliers. Wal-Mart, a pioneer in the logistics technique of cross-docking, also has store-specific orders packed and shipped directly to the store by the manufacturer. Because Wal-Mart’s fast, responsive transportation operations are such a major part of the company’s successful logistics system, great care is taken in the hiring, training, supervising, and assigning of drivers’ schedules and job responsibilities. From the onset of his retailing career, Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton recognized the importance of hiring experienced people and of building loyalty not only in his customers but also in his employees. The company hires only experienced drivers who have driven more than 300,000 accident-free miles and whom it believes will be committed to customer service. Its retail stores are considered important â€Å"customers† of the distribution centers. As stated in the â€Å"Private Fleet Driver Handbook† that each driver is given a copy of, drivers are expected to be â€Å"polite† and â€Å"kind† when dealing with store personnel and others. In addition to containing a driver’s code of conduct, the Private Fleet Driver Handbook gives instructions and rules for following pre-planned travel routes and schedules, the responsible unloading of a truck trailer at a retail store, and the safe-guarding of Wal-Mart’s property. For example, although drivers deliver loaded trailers in the afternoon and evening hours, a trailer can be brought to the store’s docks only at its scheduled unloading time. Because unloading is done at two-hour intervals during the night, a driver is expected to spend the night, returning to the distribution center at a pre-scheduled time with an empty trailer. Coordinators closely monitor the detailed records of each driver’s activities for adherence to rules. Violations are dealt with according to handbook procedures, which include employee education to prevent future occurrences of incorrect actions. By effectively managing every aspect of its transportation operations and treating its drivers fairly, Wal-Mart gets results that are unrivaled in the logistics arena. Rules are a key to consistency, which leads to preparedness, which then leads to proper execution. To gain maximum out of cross-docking, Walmart had to make fundamental changes in its approach to managerial control. The cross-docking system changed the practice of highly centralized decision at Corporate level.The system shifted the focus from â€Å"supply chain† to the â€Å"demand chain† which meant that instead of the retailer ‘pushing ‘products into the system; customers could ‘pull’ products, when and where they needed.