Social Constructionism Definition

Social Constructionism Definition Social constructionism is the theory that people develop knowledge of the world in a social context, and that much of what we perceive as reality depends on shared assumptions. From a social constructionist perspective, many things we take for granted and believe are objective reality are actually socially constructed, and thus, can change as society changes. Key Takeaways: Social Constructionism The theory of social constructionism states that meaning and knowledge are socially created.Social constructionists believe that things that are generally viewed as natural or normal in society, such as understandings of gender, race, class, and disability, are socially constructed, and consequently aren’t an accurate reflection of reality.Social constructs are often created within specific institutions and cultures and come to prominence in certain historical periods. Social constructs’ dependence of historical, political, and economic conditions can lead them to evolve and change. Origins The theory of social constructionism was introduced in the 1966 book The Social Construction of Reality, by sociologists Peter L. Berger and Thomas Luckman. Berger and Luckman’s ideas were inspired by a number of thinkers, including Karl Marx, Emile Durkheim, and George Herbert Mead. In particular, Meads theory symbolic interactionism, which suggests that social interaction is responsible for the construction of identity, was highly influential. In the late 1960s, three separate intellectual movements came together to form the foundation of social constructionism. The first was an ideological movement that questioned social realities and put a spotlight on the political agenda behind such realities. The second was a literary/rhetorical drive to deconstruct language and the way it impacts our knowledge of reality. And the third was a critique of scientific practice, led by Thomas Kuhn, who argued that scientific findings are influenced by, and thus representative of, the specific communities where theyre produced- rather than objective reality. Social Constructionism Definition The theory of social constructionism asserts that all meaning is socially created. Social constructs might be so ingrained that they feel natural, but they are not. Instead, they are an invention of a given society and thus do not accurately reflect reality. Social constructionists typically agree on three key points: Knowledge Is Socially Constructed Social constructionists believe that knowledge arises out of human relationships. Thus, what we take to be true and objective is the result of social processes that take place in historical and cultural contexts. In the realm of the sciences, this means that although truth can be achieved within the confines of a given discipline, there is no over-arching truth that is more legitimate than any other. Language Is Central to Social Construction Language abides by specific rules, and these rules of language shape how we understand the world. As a result, language isn’t neutral. It emphasizes certain things while ignoring others. Thus, language constrains what we can express as well as our perceptions of what we experience and what we know. Knowledge Construction Is Politically-Driven The knowledge created in a community has social, cultural, and political consequences. People in a community accept and sustain the community’s understanding of particular truths, values, and realities. When new members of a community accept such knowledge, it extends even further. When a community’s accepted knowledge becomes policy, ideas about power and privilege in the community become codified. These socially constructed ideas then create social reality, and- if they aren’t examined- begin to seem fixed and unchangeable. This can lead to antagonistic relationships between communities that don’t share the same understanding of social reality. Social Constructionism vs. Other Theories Social constructionism is often placed in contrast with biological determinism. Biological determinism suggests that an individuals traits and behavior are determined exclusively by biological factors. Social constructionism, on the other hand, emphasizes the influence of environmental factors on human behavior and suggests that relationships among people create reality. In addition, social constructionism should not be confused with constructivism. Social constructivism is the idea that an individuals interactions with her environment create the cognitive structures that enable her to understand the world. This idea is often traced back to developmental psychologist Jean Piaget. While the two terms spring from different scholarly traditions, they are increasingly used interchangeably. Critiques Some scholars believe that, by asserting that knowledge is socially constructed and not the result of observations of reality, social constructionism is anti-realist. Social constructionism is also criticized on grounds of relativism. By arguing that no objective truth exists and that all social constructions of the same phenomena are equally legitimate, no construct can be more legitimate than another. This is especially problematic in the context of scientific research. If an unscientific account about a phenomenon is considered as legitimate as empirical research about that phenomenon, there is no clear path forward for research to make a meaningful impact on society. Sources Andrews, Tom. â€Å"What is Social Constructionism?† Grounded Theory Review: An International Journal, vol. 11, no. 1, 2012. http://groundedtheoryreview.com/2012/06/01/what-is-social-constructionism/Berger, Peter L. and Thomas Luckman. The Social Construction of Reality. Doubleday/Anchor, 1966.Chu, Hyejin Iris. â€Å"Social Constructionism.† International Encyclopedia of the Social Sciences. Encyclopedia.com. 2008. https://www.encyclopedia.com/social-sciences-and-law/sociology-and-social-reform/sociology-general-terms-and-concepts/social-constructionismGalbin, Alexandra. â€Å"An Introduction to Social Constructionism.† Social Research Reports, vol. 26, 2014, pp. 82-92. https://www.researchreports.ro/an-introduction-to-social-constructionismGergen, Kenneth J. â€Å"The Self as Social Construction.† Psychological Studies, vol. 56, no. 1, 2011, pp. 108-116. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12646-011-0066-1Hare, Rachel T. and Jeanne Marecek. â€Å"Abnormal and Cli nical Psychology: The Politics of Madness.† Critical Psychology: An Introduction, edited by Dennis Fox and Isaac Prilleltensky, Sage Publications, 1999, pp. 104-120. Kang, Miliann, Donovan Lessard, Laura Heston, and Sonny Nordmarken. Introduction to Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. University of Massachusetts Amherst Libraries, 2017. https://press.rebus.community/introwgss/front-matter/287-2/â€Å"Social Constructionism.† Oxford Reference. oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100515181

Interview with Book Designer Stewart Williams Reedsy

Interview with Book Designer Stewart Williams Reedsy â€Å"I like things a little more visceral†¦Ã¢â‚¬  - An interview with designer Stewart Williams. We are proud to feature designer Stewart Williams on Reedsy. Stewart’s arresting, beautiful and original designs have spanned a large range of titles from novels to cooking to poetry and a range of non-fiction. We got some great insights into Stewart’s creative process, his approach to different genres and authors, plus the opportunities of a rich online presence.For the unconditional lovers of the written word, I’ve transcribed most of the interview below. But for those who want to take part in the discussion, you can directly join us on the hangout! Hi Stewart, thanks for joining me on this hangout. First, can you give me a bit of background on how you became a freelance book designer?I started out in the publishing world working in magazines and newspapers, and was primarily art directing for various publications in Seattle for quite a long time. I worked for a number of newspapers, however I really wanted to work with books, because I’ve always loved reading and I’ve loved books since I was a little kid. I always thought that the publishing industry was fascinating and that what cover designers did was really the kind of thing I wanted to do as a graphic designer.Whilst I was working for newspapers I started to get jobs here and there with publishers and I didn’t turn down anything. I knew that every job that I could do was something I could add on to my portfolio, to help me get bigger and bigger clients as I moved along. After a brief period of travel, Sasquatch books hired me as a senior designer and I stayed there for a few years. I finally ended up in New York City where I couldn’t find any work at all, so I just decided to go do business for myself.I started to build a presence using all the contacts I had acquired, and I knew at that time that it was really important for me to work on my online presence, so I was always doing online portfolios. I can’t remember the last time I showed anybody a physical portfolio, nobody really uses those anymore. I was already making websites back in the early 1990s, and those have really helped because I really don’t know where people find my work, so I try to put it everywhere.I really like the fact that you put all your work out there, on different platforms. I’ve checked your blog and you’re one of the few cover designers I’ve seen at Reedsy who posts all the projects they’re doing, including information about the creative process and previous cover versions. I think too few designers do tha t.I’ve noticed that as well and I don’t know why that is. I think sometimes it has to do with this idea that when people sign up for a portfolio and are asking for a description, if you have 25 covers it can seem a little daunting to write 25 descriptions at once. For me it was always important to do it as I went along so this wouldn’t happen.Also, I think people run out of things to say, or they are trying to really let the work speak for themselves. But for my clients, people ask me specific questions, like â€Å"do you do YA?† or â€Å"how many covers do you do?†, and I think that the explanations that I give really demystify what is going on on my end so the people get a better idea of how the process works. The blog really helps me illustrate that for them rather than just do some magic trick and say: â€Å"here’s your cover!†In particular, also, I do it to show to people how many cover designs go into a cover project for somebod y like Amazon. Sometimes I do 13 different covers before they decide on the one they like.You mentioned you’ve worked in the past for big publishers, but it seems that now you’re shifting a bit towards indie authors and getting more work from them, am I right?Yes, that’s true, it’s something that I’ve seen more and more over the last 3-4 years: with the rise of the Kindle people have started to write independently and publish via KDP or similar services. It’s been really different for me in the beginning because I usually never dealt with authors, and I realised I enjoyed it quite a bit. Sometimes they have really good ideas, or they just want you to do whatever you feel like, and I like that direct line of communication with people.And by working directly with authors you get more creative freedom, right?You know, I’ve often found along the years that the less I get paid, the more creative freedom I have! When people have larger budg ets they tend to have an idea of exactly what they want you to do. With smaller budgets, they’re more inclined to relinquish control of things and let you do what you want if the price is kept down. Of course I never use that as a way to do whatever I feel like, because I think it’s really important to hear what the author is telling me the want. I want to make sure that my work is something they’ll be happy with and will help them sell their book.Do you prefer working purely with stock imagery, or illustrations, or a mixture?That’s another thing that has to do with budgets in a way. I think there is a lot of inexpensive stock photography out there, so it is hard to convince somebody to spend more money on an illustration.I’m not really an illustrator, I haven’t done it for a living. I like to illustrate, but it’s one of those things where I have to prove myself to people before I get them to hire me, so I’m doing more smaller jobs that don’t pay as much just to get the experience and have something to show.I feel like with the surge of independent publishing and the number of books available having an illustration - something that is 100% unique - really adds value.I agree, and I’d say that the stock photography is not keeping up with the demand, so you start seeing the same photographs on different people’s books and that’s embarrassing for the author.I think people are starting to realise that you cannot just take an image and put your title and name on it because there is a very good chance that someone else is going to use the same†¦You work across all genres, I think, but is there any that you prefer working on? Or any project lately that you have particularly enjoyed?I like things a little more visceral, where there is more of a graphic edge. I think crime and horror are like that. I try not to emulate what people see out there and stay away from the typical horror book cover.But I do like to work on all things, even non-fiction. I have a few client publishers who publish more historical books, and those tend to follow certain contemporary trends in the United States politics. I do like working with archival and historical images.I also love working on poetry books. There tends to be a non-linear way to think about the covers that can work with poetry books, they’re not conceptual the same way a fiction book might be. I find it more interesting and challenging to work with an abstract idea. If you’re building a cover and you know there are certain elements that have to be on it, it becomes more of a production process than a creative one. My method of working is a little weirder and less straightforward than that.That’s good to hear, because a common piece of advice if you write in a particular genre is that your cover absolutely has to respect certain guidelines that are part of the genre. I always feel like as an author you might stand a better chance if you come with a different style for the cover, even one that doesn’t fully â€Å"respect† the genre.I would agree. Other people who write in your genre all have similar looking covers. So if I’m going to look for a book in that genre online, I’m probably immediately going to pick up the one that has a cover that doesn’t look like all the others.That said, it’s hard to convince people to do something different. Even publishers will say to me: â€Å"this book has sold quite a bit and it looks like this, can you do something similar?†. But the problem is that the public is smarter than that and after a while it is going to get bored.I think there’s only a small window of time in which you can emulate an idea and still be successful. The rest of the time you’ve got to try something different. It is a risk, and although people have to take risks, they usually don’t want to be the firs t one.

Essay assignment #1 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Assignment #1 - Essay Example His answer to the given question sounds unambiguously and strictly, that is â€Å"Absolutely not!† (Phillips, 2010). William D. Phillips suggests a widespread opinion that with an evolution of technical and scientific progress there are a lot of people who do not find a phenomenon of supernatural God and His world creation as a relevant explanation of the universe ordering (2010). Such ideas made God obsolete and defend the concept of logical explanation to each thing occurred in the world. On the other hand, religious people stay a strict idea that science is mistaken. To such an extend religion and science are considered to be â€Å"irreconcilable enemies† (Phillips, 2010). William D. Phillips claims that such concept is totally wrong and ridiculous. This scientist tries to persuade us that it is possible to keep in your soul and mind the idea of God and the relevance of science (Phillips, 2010). He considers himself as an example of such person. He claims that he is a physicist and he connects all his life with scientific researches and investigations (Phillips, 2010). He deals with nature and makes tries to know how the nature works (Phillips, 2010). Moreover, he delivers his knowledge to other people and trains them in science. Still, he convincingly declares that he attends church, prays and believes in faith (Phillips, 2010). He is sure in the existence of God and works with the science. According to such ideas William D. Phillips delivers two questions that he considers to be pertinent. He explains how he can believe in God and why he believes in God (Phillips, 2010). These two points seem to be relevant for William D. Phillips and his attitude to religion. The answer of the first question is easy and clear. Phillips stays the idea that believe in God does not require scientific matter and logical confirmation (Phillips, 2010). He thinks that it is necessary just to believe with

Critically discuss why it has proved so difficult to curb child labour Essay

Critically discuss why it has proved so difficult to curb child labour - Essay Example Even with the implementation of laws within the local and international setting seeking to manage and reduce child labour incidents, this issue has remained a major problem. This essay shall now critically discuss why it has proved difficult to curb the child labour problem. An overview of the child labour problem will first be presented followed by issues and challenges relating to child labour. Possible proposals and recommendations to curb child labour will also be presented in this essay. Body About 246 million children are said to be involved in child labour according to the UNICEF1. About 20% of these children also work under very dangerous, unhealthy, and unsafe conditions, including work in mines, work with chemicals in agriculture, and working with hazardous machines2. Cases of child labour are also very extensive, covering various countries, and being subjected to different conditions, including work in their own homes. A good majority of these children are in the agricultu ral setting. There are also millions of young female children working as household helpers, often open to exploitation as well as abuse. Millions more are exposed to unfavourable conditions as they are subjected to trafficking, debt payments, slavery, child soldiering3, and prostitution4. Estimates indicate how Asia and the Pacific area have the biggest number of child labourers as young as 5 years to 14 years. Sub-Saharan Africa has about 48 million child labourers with Latin America and the Caribbean having about 17.4 million child labourers5. Fifteen percent of children in the Middle East and North Africa are also working with about 2.5 million and 2.4 million children subjected to work for developing and developing states6. This problem will likely continue to escalate and worsen in the years following due to the current unfavourable conditions present in these countries where child labour statistics are high. Child labour is very much related to rural activities. In Pakistan fo r example, close to 70% of their working children are carrying out agricultural works7. The young boys would likely be involved than girls in child labour and the older children are often involved in paid work8. The issue with child labour relates to the impact on the welfare of the children and the impact of such issue on households. In India, courts ruled against the practice of employing children in factories to make fireworks, including other dangerous occupations9. This is the idea which supports majority of the policy discussions on child labour and is the basis for ILO Convention No. 13810. The favourable impact to the household on allowing child labour mostly relates to economic benefits and the decreased educational cost in not sending the child to school11. The main costs relating to child labour refers to the possibly decreased future wages of the child as he or she would enter into the adult workforce; as he or she has lower educational attainment, his or her work qualif ications are compromised. There are specific accepted premises on child labour which should support the discussion. For one, it is very clear that child labour very much indicates poverty among households where children are living. In a review of studies which portray major negative relations between child labour and household income, such relationship is less relevant for the more progressive but

Cold environments may be developed Essay Example for Free

Cold environments may be developed Essay Cold environments may be developed in a sustainable manner. To what extent do you agree with this statement? I disagree with this statement more than I agree with it. Cold environments in the world that were previously wilderness areas have undergone development, and nearly all of them have proved to be unsustainable. In the alpine areas, the mountains are a major magnet because of the scenery and the wide variety of winter sports that can take place there. The Alps have been developed as a tourist area. Although tourism benefits the area economically, it is socially and environmentally unsustainable. Tradition and culture has been eroded away because many young people now go down the mountains into urban areas in search of jobs. Even though the tourist industry has encouraged many young farmers to diversify out of rural and primary activities, many people still leave. Aside from that, the tourist industry brings with it unwanted pollution and litter and also causes footpath erosion. The tourist industry is also a potential hazard to the mountains and villages because the winter sports activities taking place there may cause avalanches. In the tundra or arctic regions, development has not been sustainable either, also both environmentally and socially. Gold, and particularly oil exploration and exploitation have scarred the fragile landscape. In 1968, the Trans-Alaskan pipeline was built from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. Not only were there leakage problems of the oil pipeline associated with earthquakes and permafrost, but it also interfered with the migration of caribou on land and salmon in the rivers. Aside from that, in the 1989, there was the problem of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, which polluted the ocean and killed hundreds of birds and marine wildlife. Oil exploration and the invasion of the Europeans into Inuit territory were also socially unsustainable. The traditional way of life was lost as many Inuits were forced to live the white way and many Inuit children were taken from their parents and educated in missionary schools. Their traditional ways of hunting were also lost due to severe regulations on gun control and the introduction of currency into their simple economy. The latter was also the cause of excessive and unsustainable sealing and hunting in the tundra and arctic lands. Although the areas around the Southern Ocean have not been developed, vast quantities of natural fish, seal and whale resources have been taken out. On South Orkney Island, seals were completely depleted by 1800. Whaling began in the 1840s but was unsustainable as well, and ended in 1965 because stocks were exhausted. Fish stocks such as cod and krill have also become severely depleted in recent years. Although institutes such as the International Whaling Convention, the Marine Resources Institute and the CCAMLR were set up, illegal fishing and whaling have led to the depletion of natural resources. In Grytviken and Stromness, abandoned buildings have become an eyesore because they were not cleared away. Attempts at developing Antarctica have been made, mainly in the form of tourism. This is the only cold environment development that can be said to be sustainable. Strict IAATO guidelines on tourist behaviour, controlled numbers of tourists and the harsh climate of Antarctica have made the area difficult to develop. Scientific and research stations, although few, have contributed to waste generated in the area, along with footpath erosion. Most of the waste is shipped to the UK for processing, but what remains cannot decompose easily in the cold climate. Due to efforts of the Antarctic Treaty ratified in 1991 and much pressure from the environmental groups however, the Antarctic region has largely remained untouched. Where development takes place, it cannot be said to be sustainable, because changes have to be made to the area to accommodate people and people contribute to environmental degradation at the very least, even if great care is taken not to disturb or disrupt natural environments. The development of cold environments is mainly unsustainable, although tourism in Antarctica seems to be otherwise. Who knows, however, whether it will remain sustainable in the future because of increased tourism, or because of better technology to fuel mass tourism.

presentation for billy collins :: essays research papers

Billy Collins   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Billy Collins was born on March 22, 1941 in New York, NY and is married to Diane Collins. He is the son of Katherine M. Collins and William S. Collins. Collins received a Bachelors Degree at the College of the Holy Cross in 1963 and also received a Ph.D. in romantic poetry in 1971. He has been a writer-in-residence at Sarah Lawrence College and also was a Literary Lion of the New York Public Library. He is an English Professor at Lehman College for CUNY, where he has been teaching for over 30 years. In June of 2001, Collins was appointed United States Poet Laureate (2001-2003). In January of 2004, he was named New York State Poet Laureate 2004-2006. Collins has been able to put together high critical acclaim with such broad popular appeal which is something no poet has done since Robert Frost. His last three collections of poems broke sales records for poetry. His audiences include people of all ages and backgrounds. Collins published eight collections of poetry. He also edited two anthologies of contemporary poetry: Poetry 180: A Turning Back to Poetry and 180 More: Extraordinary Poems for Every Day. His work has also appeared in such periodicals as The New Yorker, The Paris Review, The Atlantic Monthly, and The American Scholar. Critical Essay on  ¡Ã‚ §The Afterlife ¡Ã‚ ¨ by Chris Semansky Chris Semansky claims that Billy Collins serio-comic book Questions about Angels, addresses religious questions without being religious. Semansky evaluates Collins ¡Ã‚ ¦ poem  ¡Ã‚ §The Afterlife ¡Ã‚ ¨ and emphasizes that Collins draws a relationship between imagination and belief. Semansky claims that  ¡Ã‚ §imagination is at the root of belief. ¡Ã‚ ¨ Semansky calls Collins a relativist which is a philosophical position which asserts that the belief of each individual is relative to his or her own belief. Semansky believes that Collins description of the afterlife, and the images of the journeys of the dead, draw a relationship between an individual ¡Ã‚ ¦s imagination rather than a religious standpoint. Semansky sums it up by saying that Collins is not trying to send a religious message to his readers but rather he is trying to inform his readers to find the meaning of life ¡Ã‚ ¦s experiences rather than waiting for the rewards of the afterlife. Chris Semansky,  ¡Ã‚ §Critical Essay on The Afterlife ¡Ã‚ ¨, in Poetry for Students, Vol 18, Gale, 2003. Collins, Billy by Tod Marshall Tod Marshall describes Billy Collins as both philosophical and comical. He also claims that Collins is not only intellectual but accessible.

Principles of Economics Essay

Lets first start with a question that although is trivial, but will help us understand the answer to this question, a little better. What is economic growth? Economic growth is the increase in the inflow of money within the economy. In other words, it is also the increase in the government’s holding of money. Now, there are a lot of ways an economy can be boosted in order to make the country more efficient. Some people mistake the growth and the stimulation of the economy as the increase in taxes. It is not incorrect to say that the increase in the government’s revenue is highly based on the increase in the tax rate through out the country. This increase in the tax rate is not only on the products of the government-based organizations or factories, but even the private investors and the citizen-owned company’s products have to undergo the same tax rate. This increase in tax-rate, no doubt increases the government tax revenue, making them more capable of spending and investing more on the country’s infrastructure and to work on the areas that might boost the economy. But there is something very important that happens while they are at the point of increasing the tax rates. They overlook the fact that the increase in the tax rate reduces the consumer investments. This reduction in the consumer investments decreases the demand of the products. By this I mean that their purchasing power is decreased, not directly, that is their salary is not decreased, but the prices are increased due to the increase in the tax rates. This reduction in the consumer demand then allows the economic growth to go in the negative direction. This is just one approach that most people have about the economy. Some people mistake the economic growth’s key factor to be consumption. Well, they are highly incorrect. The economic growth of any country is not dependent upon how many products and goods have been consumed in the market. But, instead it is dependent on the production of those goods and services. It is the production that helps the economic growth. The manufacturing of the cars on the streets is not something made by nature and given to us to use. Instead it is the workings of both, the businesses and the individuals that is the production and then the consumption of the manufactured cars to make the transportation system of the country more efficient. Hence, by this we can conclude that, the economic growth of a country is not the consumption, but the result of the production that increases the consumption of the goods in the economy, thereby increasing the demand of the products and hence, boosting the economy. This misperception that has been described above is what is wrong in the economy. The Bush administration focuses more on the consumption landing it in spending deficit of over $ 100 billion. Although this can be looked over from a different perspective, for example, we talk about an unemployed man who spends and buys his household necessities by using credit cards. This does not allow the spending to increase, because the consumers are using their credit cards and not a liquid asset (money). The Bush administration as mentioned above focuses more on the consumption and not the spending, this in turn reduces the budget that is allocated for the production, if the government is interested more in how much is consumed in the market. Although this is the wrong approach, but is still being followed in the country. The production has been slowed and so has the consumption in the economy. Until and unless there is not enough production, there is no way that the consumption can increase. Sacks, 2001) Well, just like any other problem, there is a solution to this problem too. The government does not restrict the production directly by stopping the factories to produce more, instead, the raise in the taxes increases the prices of the raw materials, hence increases the prices of the raw materials, increases the prices of the goods. The then increased pric es of the goods reduces the purchasing power of the consumers, thereby reducing consumption. The increase in taxes is one way of how the production is reduced. The government needs to decrease the number of restrictions on the private / public owned organizations and liberate them. (Giplin, 1987) The private sectors not only have to go through these restrictions what to produce when, but they also have a lot of trade restrictions. For example, if a computer Software Company in a state in USA wants Indian programmers to help them out to design new software, they can not get them. The law restricts them to get people from abroad to help them out. The above mentioned are just few problems and misperceptions of the people of as to what really is economic growth. Also mentioned above are the things that hinder economic growth. Now, we will be talking about how the economy can be boosted. Following are just few ways of what the government can do to stimulate the economy. We will then be discussing what the individuals can do as citizens to help in the growth of the economy. There are a lot of things that the government can do to make the economic growth faster. But in every idea that will be laid down, we have to keep in mind that this is not a perfect world and we can not expect everything to work out in reality, the way we want it to. There is always a room for improvement. One of the options to boost the economy is to create more jobs. More people being employed would mean more production and more production allows the consumption to increase and ultimately the demand for consumer goods would also increase. The aggregate demand for goods when increased boosts the economy. It is an entire circle that goes clockwise that is boost the economy when there are more people hired and under stimulate it when there is a high unemployment rate in the country. This option can also be looked from a different perspective. A high unemployment rate of the country would mean that there are more people fired from work. This means that the people who are employed will only be the ones with good salary. This in turn means that they will be the only ones in the economy who can buy goods because their purchasing power is not affected. Now, because not a lot of people are employed, the rate at which the products were being consumed before the raise in the rate of unemployment would fall. This decrease in the rate of consumption allows the companies fire more workers in order to increase their revenues, that is, if the consumption is low, their revenues will be low and they would have to fire more people so that they do not end up in losses. Hence, the unemployment rate would be even higher. (Giplin, 1987) Hence if the government starts to spend more on the various projects and infrastructure, that is focus more on the production and not just the spending, then this would definitely allow more people to be hired and thereby reducing the rate of unemployment. These artificially produced jobs do not directly increase the consumption of the goods but increase the level of employment in the country, increases the purchasing power of the employees and make them more efficient to buy various goods and services. There is one more thing that can be done to boost the economy of the country. That is through reduction in the tax rates. This reduction in the taxes allows the increase of the purchasing power of the individuals allowing them to buy more. This increase in the consumption of the goods then helps the aggregate demand curve shift to the right that is increasing the demand of the goods and services. Let’s take an example. If the tax charges for a particular product is 80 cents and before the increase in the tax rate was 50 cents, then I am more likely to buy more of that product when the tax rate was 50 cents. This increase in the consumption would then increase the demand. Hence, boost the economy. The tax revenue which adds to the revenues of the government might not be really high if the tax rates are high, as much as if it were low. By this I mean that, when the tax rates are high, people tend to buy less of the products. This increase in the tax rate although allows a high revenue for the government, but that is the narrow outlook of this perspective. Because, if the taxes are high, the purchasing power of the people decreases and instead of maybe 5 pieces of the same product that they used to buy with lesser tax rate, they may now buy just one piece of the same product. Hence the increase in taxes might not increase the revenue as much as the decrease in the taxes would. (Sacks, 2001) While the economists are dealing with the country’s economy, as in how is the economy to be improved, there are a lot of things that they have to consider. It is not just the tax rate or just the employment rate that is to be considered. Hence, it is important to know the problem, the solution to the problem and the most important thing is the timing. When the decision that has been made is implemented is very important. Hence, by the time the decision has been made and the economists are ready to implement the new policy, the economic conditions by then would have changed dramatically. It is good to leave the economy the way it is, at times. Before we make matters even worse, we should take a break, leave the economic activities of the country alone for a while and let them be just the way they are. There is a growing inflation in the economy, and not a lot is being done to decrease the rate of inflation. The upper class people are not the ones that suffer and undergo spending money from mortgage. It is the middle class and the lower class people who have to go through all the agony to have means to earn more in order to cover up the loans they have been borrowing. Now, in this very scenario, there are two things that are to be considered. One is the interest rate and the other is the inflow of money in the wrong hands. (Richards, 2007) The inflow of money in the wrong hands means that, the rich keep on getting richer, and the poor get poorer. The rich already have jobs which allow them to own multi million dollar buildings, private jets, an 1890 model cars and a lot more. And with their current employment, they do not spend that money, it goes in their bank accounts not in their pockets to spend. The government should be more careful in where their money goes. Because if the upper class gets it, it is highly certain that they will not be spending it, rather saving it. This entire problem of not spending will decrease the consumption of goods that are being produced. Where as, if the money that goes in the hands of the middle and the lower class people will be spent as soon as they get it. This is because they are the ones who are suffering from the increase in inflation. They are the ones who are not able to pay the bills, their children’s school fee, transportation expenses etc. Hence money in their hands would be spent pretty quickly. (Cohn, 2007) Every time the economy slows down the middle class and the lower class people are the ones that are affected by it. The reduction in the economic growth of the country is usually followed by a rise in the unemployment rate. The middle class workers are the ones that are fired first and they are rehired after everyone else has been hired. And they are the ones that mostly undergo all the problems faced by people in the time of poverty. (Levine, 1982) The second problem is of the interest rates. The government has to lower the interest rates so that the individuals are more capable of investing and consuming more. With higher interest rates in the market the people can not invest in the infrastructure, the increase in the interest rates contributes to the increase in the prices of the infrastructure that is for sale. The decrease in the investment by the individuals would in turn reduce the demand for the available land and the buildings etc. (Richards, 2007) Apart from all this, it is highly important for the government to reduce the costs of housing in the country. If the costs are reduced, they will be better off and will be able to afford things that they could not earlier. Not only this, but the government should spend more on infrastructure and build more houses. This would create more jobs and would allow people to buy more affordable houses. Earlier, we discussed the rising rate of inflation and how it affects the lower and the middle class workers. There is one more thing that the government needs to work on considering the ever-growing inflation rate of the country. The minimum wage rate of the people through out the country should be increased. This was the plan of the Bush administration before the attack of the September 9, 2000. It was to be implemented, but then the attack on the world trade centre took place and the economic growth was decreased dramatically. Hence, the increase in the minimum wage rate never took place. This increase in the wages will ultimately allow people to buy more by having their purchasing power increased. (Levine, 1982) One of the key factors that help stimulate the economy is a highly educated workforce. This workforce will help boost the economy in several ways. The wages of the people will be higher once they are highly educated and this will in turn help the economy to stimulate itself. Apart from this, the government should invest more in the capital in the country. This will allow the government to employ more workers and will ultimately increase the demand for various consumer goods, thereby stimulating the economy. It is very important for a country to have a proper and a strong infrastructure; this certainly helps the government to boost the economy. This strong infrastructure can not be obtained in a day’s work; it takes a lot of years to reach a position where the economy is strong enough to withstand the problems that the government faces during recession if there is any in the future. The individuals can and will do what ever they can in order to make their country better off but the country is nothing without proper law enforcement forces that will make sure that they are on the right track. Not only that, but the government will have to make sure that the promised contracts by the individuals are being materialized. The government should offer people different saving accounts which will push the people to save more. This will help them learn the importance of saving. A lot of people in the country are known for living large. This term is used for them only because they spend their salaries as soon as they get them. Now, this expenditure of their salaries that they do as soon as it enters their bank accounts is not a think that they should be proud of. But if the government advertise their saving accounts more then there is a high possibility that the people will save and put their money in those bank accounts. The reason this is emphasized is that if the people are unemployed, they would not have to borrow a lot and then be in debt for years, with the debt’s interest increasing every year. Well, first of all the government will be sure of the fact that not a lot of money will be on loaned if there is a high unemployment rate, and even if it is, they will be sure that the money is returned, because not a lot of it would have been borrowed in the first place. The people will take out money first from their saving’s account. With an appropriate interest return rate of the saving’s accounts it will be even easier for the people to save a little every month without second guessing themselves that the money they are investing will not be in vain, and will help them in the future. It is very important for the government to allow an open market economy. This open market economy would then allow trade of goods and services from around the globe without any hindrances. Likewise it would not only boost the morale of the employees to work harder to produce more goods and services but also provide them with higher wages. This higher wage will be a result of the increase in trade which indirectly means increase in consumption of the goods and services. This increase in consumption will allow the aggregate demand curve to shift to the right that is, the demand for the consumer goods will increase. (Sacks, 2001) There is one more thing which is very important for a country to boost its economy, to make the most of what it has and to be efficient. Timing is the most important factor of all. To produce the right amount of goods at the appropriate time is highly essential. This efficiency can be obtained with the increase in the technological advancements taking place in the country. The technological advancements of the country would not only make the production of goods time-efficient, but the production of the goods itself will be cost effective. The term cost effective means that the products are produced with the minimum cost of the raw materials, allowing a high profit margin. This high profit margin helps various organizations to produce more, hence hire more workers, and pays them more if the sales are high. All this plays a huge role in boosting the economy. (Giplin, 1987)

Organisation Study in Ayurveda

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION 1. INTRODUCTION Organization is a pattern of relationship through which employees under the direction of Managers pursue their common goals. It is the study and careful application of knowledge about how people act within the organization. Organizational studies are usually conducted to gain practical knowledge about various aspects of an organization. It provides structure for this relationship to attain the goals. The organization study is similar as it reveals the effect of people collaborating as on organization, under the guidance of the higher-ups. The organizational study is an important part of our academic curriculum. This study is aimed at an opportunity to the students to observe, learn, assimilate and analysis the objectives and vision of the organization and the functioning of various departments. This study enable the student to get a practical and the real time feel of various aspects concerned with the organization and relate it to the concepts and theories studied so far in the class room. This studies would help the future manages to face the challenges lying ahead.Organization studies primarily focus to get a corporate exposure in understanding more about the organization and it’s functioning as whole. It upholds the close scrutiny of the market conditions prevalent as well as ongoing competition that reveals the pinnacle at which the organization has strived to accomplish over this time span. Since Ayuveda is gaining importance in our day today life, a detailed study of an organization manufacturing and marketing is apt in its own sense. Hence the organization study was taken up at MVM Ayurvedic research lab; a well defined industry in ayurvedic preparations situated a stone throw from Kollam. . 1 OBJECTIVES The main objectives of the study are; 1. To study about the structure of various departments in the organization. 2. To know the functioning of each of the departments. 3. To get a clear idea about product a nd production process 4. To understand the strengths and weakness of the organization . 5. To know the attitude of customers and the public towards the organization. 6. To analyze the origin and growth of the organization. 7. To know the position of the organization in the Ayurveda industry. 1. 2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Research in common parlance refers to a search for knowledge.In fact, research is an art of scientific investigation once can also define research as a science and systematic search for pertinent information on a specific topic. Research is, thus an original contribution to the existing stock of knowledge making for its advancement. For conducting the organizational study both primary and secondary data are used. * Primary Data * Interview with managers, office staff and workers. * Observations. * * Secondary Data * Data collected from reports of the firm and company websites. * Data collected from catalogues, broachers and internet. * Data collected from ayurvedic jour nals, magazine etc. 1. 3 SCOPE The organization study was conducted in MVM Pooyappally, 11k. m from Kottarakkara. The study place more emphasis on the process that takes place in various departments in MVM. Organization structure and management of various department of MVM are taken for the purpose of study. Sufficient attempt has been taken to cover almost all the facets of this organization and to understand the complex of factors that are functioning within this organization. 1. 4 LIMITATING FACTORS 1. Time bound study for the completion 2. Financial constraints 3. Non availability of confidential matters of the company 4.Lack of precision due to the biasing of the responds 2. 5 Chapterisation Chapter 1 – Includes the introduction, objectives, research methodology, and limitation of the study. Chapter 2 –This chapter deals with industry profile Chapter 3 –It includes history of company, vision, mission, and product profile of MVM Ayurvedic Reseach Lab. Chapte r 4 –It describes structure of the departments and functions of the departments. Chapter 5 –This chapter contains the details regarding the firm’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, and political, economical, social, technological, environmental, and legal aspects.Chapter 6 –This deals with findings, suggestions and conclusions. Chapter 2 INDUSTRIAL PROFILE ABOUT AYURVEDA Ayurveda is the oldest Indian indigenous medicine system, probably with its roots in the Indus Civilization. In the Vedic period, the osadhisukta of the Rig-Veda is the oldest documented knowledge about plants and herbal medicines. The term Ayus means duration or span of life, Veda means unimpeachable knowledge. The common translation of the Ayurveda is science of life. The earlier recorded knowledge about ayurveda is found in the Rig-Veda and the Atharvaveda, both of the second millennium BC. he Atharvaveda lists eight divisions of ayurveda; internal medicine surgery of head and neck, ophthalmology, surgery, toxicology, psychiatry, pediatrics, gerontology or science of rejuvenation and the science of fertility. According to philosophical concepts on which ayurveda is based, all bodies-material, living, conscious and unconscious- are evolved out of prakriti by the subtle influence of the purusa, the absolute or the primal self conscious principle and every component of the human organism is created out of the tathvas as evolved out of the prakrti.In ayurvedic medicine, health is defined as soundless of Sarrira, Manas and Athma. Each of these must be nurtured if the individual is to have good health. Ayurveda is basically a humoural medical system and conceives of three essential humours. The three humours are Vata, Pita; Kapha occasionally in the surgical tradition a fourth humour-blood was also added. A STUDY ON AYURVEDA Ayurveda is the ‘’knowledge or science of life’’. According to Charaka, the ancient physician-sage, life i s a unified state of the physical body, the cognitive organs, Mind and the soul, thus signifying a living being.Ayurvedic deals with the maintenance of health and relief from disease. Susruta, another physician-stage of early times, Defines the healthy state thus: ‘A person whose somatic and psychic humors are In equilibrium, digestion is uniformly healthy, with normal functioning of the Fundamental tissues of the body and body wastes, accompanied by the processes of the soul and cognitive organs. This is said to be a healthy person. The primary position given to humoral equilibrium indicates its importance in maintaining health . any disequilibrium is considered to lead to disease.Health is the physiological maintenance of all the functions of living being, while disease is the disturbance in the physiology. The contemporary practice of ayurveda is based on the several hundreds volumes of classical treatise and on the officials formulatory and pharmacopoeia. REVIVAL OF AYURVE DA During the 500 years of foreign domination of India, Ayurveda was held in ridicule, and it withered. But the invisible spirit of this life science survived and thrived. Today, Ayurveda has caught the attention of the people the world over both laymen and professionals.The major credit for reviving and spreading the message of Ayurveda in the 20th century goes to the KottakkalAryaVaidasala and its founder Vaidyaratnam P. S. Varier. Called the ‘’Saviour of ayurveda in the south’, he was the first man in south India to organize the treatment of patients under the Ayurvedic system. He pioneered the production of Ayurvedic medicines on modern lines, and ensured that Ayurveda occupied. It has a rightful place among the country’s major medical system. Inspired by the zeal, vision and human compassion of its great founder, Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala carried on with its noble mission.It sailed smoothly through two World Wars, the Great Depression of the thirties and several natural calamities and political upheavals. Today, it has grown. In to a mighty organization unparallel in South India the services of the Arya Vaidya Sala reach its patients through a nation wide network of 14 branches and more than 1000 retail distributors that market its 500-odd formulations. Thousands of patients visit Kottakel every year, seeking succour at the healing hands of Arya Vaidya Sala. Ailing people from the West European, Arabian, and American and Far East countries also approach the institution.Ayurvedic /Ayurveda Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine from India that provides guidance regarding food and lifestyle so that healthy people can stay healthy and those with health challenges can improve their health. There is several aspects to Ayurveda that are quite unique; * Its recommendations will often be different for each person regarding which food and which lifestyle they should follow in order to be completely healthy. This is due to its use of a constitutional model. *Everything in Ayurveda is validated by observation, inquiry, direct examination and knowledge derived from the ancient text. It understands that there are energetic forces that influence nature and human beings. These forces are called the Tridoshas. * Ayurveda sees a strong connection between the mind and body. Ayurveda the Indian system of nature cure Life is a combination of the body, senses, the mind and the Alma. They cannot be separated from each other and none can be neglected. From this combination ensures Ayur- the span of life. Ayurveda- the science of life is the knowledge of this association and of how to maintain it as long as possible. Ayus- means knowledge.This system of medicine evolved around 600 BC in India. Ayurveda is known to promote positive health, natural beauty and long life. Ayuveda believes that human beings and nature should be in perfect harmony and that disease occurs when the equilibrium between these two is disrupted. Restorat ion of this fundamental balance, through the use of nature and its product is the main goal of this medical system. The concept is not just curing bodily ailments but also preventing it. Ayurvedic treatments are person specific rather than disorder specific.The age of the patient, the climate in which he lives, his cultural and social surroundings and his bodily constitution are taken into account before offering a prognosis. Touch, inspection and interrogation are the main tools of diagnosis. Then the physician emphasizes a regimen of diet with the use of herbal medicines. Herbs are used to eliminate excesses and strengthen deficiencies. Their primary action is to stimulate particular organic functions. Thus ayurveda aims to solve many health problems; only through the adjustment of diet-so there are no distressing side effects.Such an approach has proven effective over the centuries and has today become an internationally acclaimed form of healing, rejuvenation and healthy living. Ayurveda is all about the science of holistic healing and it involves a complete plan to achieve the perfect health for all individuals. Despite the fact that it originated thousands of years ago, ayurveda is equally pertinent in the current scientific world. And Kerala has played a vital role in keeping the magic of Ayurveda alive. Ayurvedic health packages are an integral part of tourist activities carried out in the state.Another aspect about the important role of Ayurveda in Kerala is that Kerala’s fair climate and richness in resources make it the perfect destination for a soothing Ayurvedic massage and other traditional actions here. All these massages are readily available at our resort at attractive prices that will surprise you once you compare them to others. Our treatments include relaxing body to face massages that will add to the glow on your body as well as on your soul and will leave you to look absolutely stunning. These treatments are all done with expert ha nds to achieve better customer satisfaction.You can be rest assured that all these treatments, massages and other ayurvedic measures will satisfy you to your heart’s content and leave a smile on your face so much that you will crave for more!!! Health Rejuvenation Treatment The Kerala Ayurvedic Health Rejuvenation program that we offer will drive away all physical suffering, control several dreaded disabilities, ward off the middle age syndrome, retard the aging process and provide unlimited curative powers for body and mind by repairing the worn out tissues, revitalizing the body, increasing memory power, improving vigor and vitality and make oneself physically and mentally fit.This is done through a process of  cleansing by employing special medicated oil massages, Dhara/Kizhi, medicated steam bath and a rational combination of medicines to correct the functions of body and mind. This reduces overweight and mental tension, enhances body complexion and skin luster, correct s metabolism and deficiency and recharges the mind and body. Therapeutic Treatment There are no proper treatment in other systems of medicines like allopathic for diseases such as Arthritis, Spondylitis, Lumbago, Slip Disc, Frozen Shoulder, Stress & Strain, and Sciatica etc.A variety of result-proven procedures are available in Ayurveda namely Pizhichil, Njavarakishi, Abhayangam, Sirodhara, Elakizhi etc. for treating these problems. PIZHICHIL It is a relaxing, soothing and rejuvenating treatment with medicated warm oil used in a continuous stream for a definite period for the whole body (excluding head & neck). It is used to effectively treat arthritis, ageing, general weakness, paralysis etc. ‘Pizhichil’ and ‘Sarvangadhara’ are technically the same. ’Pizhichil’ literally means ‘squeezing’.Here, warm medicated oil is squeezed over the patient’s body from a piece of cloth that is periodically dipped in a vessel containing th e oil. In Sarvangadhara, oil is poured over the patient’s body from pitchers. Pizhichil requires a lesser quantity of oil when compared to Sarvangadhara. Before beginning Pizhichil, a suitable type of oil should be applied to the head and body of the patient. In some cases, a talam is also applied on the head and bandaged with leaves. The masseur usually begin by squeezing oil on to the shoulders and then down the hands of the patient who sits in an upright position. Each masseur uses on hand to pour the oil hile massaging with the other. Pizhichil is recommended for diseases caused by a vitiation of the Vata humour-Pakshaghata (Hemiplegia), paralysis and muscle spasms – and other degenerative diseases that affect the muscles. NJAVARAKIZHI' It is a whole body massage using medicated milk-porridge made into a bundle. It is an immuno-enhancing rejuvenation therapy and is made use of in convalescence period of injury and trauma, muscular wasting, arthritis, general weakne ss, paralysis etc. SIRODHARA It is a unique treatment where specific medicated oils are used to bathe the head in a regular stream for a definite period.It is an effective therapy for mental relaxation and cures insomnia, stress, depression, decreased mental agility etc. When medicated buttermilk replaces oil (sneha), the therapy is called Takradhara. If medicated milk is used instead of medicated oil, then the process is called. SHIROVASTHI It is considered more of a palliative (Shamana) treatment than an eliminative (Shodhana) one. The treatment is usually preceded by oleation (Snehana) and sudation (Swedana) a leather sleeve of about six to eight inches in length is placed on the shaven head of the patient and a band (vartti) tied around the forehead to keep it in place.Kneaded dough is used to line the inside of this sleeve and ensure that it does not leak. Oil is then poured into the sleeve and allowed to remain on the head for a while. The oil commonly used is Ksheerabala or D hanwantaram. The length of time the oil should be kept there is determined by the severity of the disease. Usually it is up to fifty minutes for diseases caused by severe Vata disorders. This treatment is prescribed for disorders like facial paralysis, cataract, deafness, earache, insomnia and other diseases that afflict the cranial nerves. ABHYANGAMIt is otherwise known as Uzhichil where medicated oil is used to massage the body with specific implications to the 107 vital points (marmas) of the body. It helps to give better circulation, muscular tone, mental tranquility and better health maintenance. ELAKIZHI It is an innovative classical massage with medicated leaves and is used to tackle joint pain, muscle cramps, stress and arthritis. Basics of Ayurveda In Ayurveda, living beings are supposed to be created and composed of five eternal substance namely space, air, fire, water and earth and three humors nd seven basic tissues. Disease is understood as an imbalance between the body ’s three humors. The three humors are Vata Pitta and Kapha. Vata consists of the predominance of air and space, Pitta consists of the predominance of Agni and Kapha is predominant of water. These three humors are present in tissues and doshas. The seven basic tissues or Sapta Dhatu are Rasa, Rakta, Mamsa, Medas, Asthi, and Shukra. As soon as food is taken, it is digested and Saara and Mala are produced. Mala means sweat, urine, faeces, nasal discharge, eye and ear discharges and so on.The three humors move from one part of the body to another part and produces sound health, happiness, good complexion, resistance against disease and decay and physical strength. But if they are excited or vitiated they not only produce disease but also degeneration of the body. Vata (Air) The activities and movements of the body and basic emotion are governed by Vata. The main functions are to give motion to the body and the conduction of impulses from sensory organs and separation of Rasa, Kit ta from the body, the secretion and evacuation of urine and semen.It is responsible for speech, tactile sensation, hearing and basic emotions. It is also responsible for the formulation and development of foetus in intrauterine life. When Vata is deranged or vitiated, it produces psychosomatic disorder and thereby loss of weight, loss of biological and physical strength causing congenital deformities. Types and Sites of Vata According to the functions and the site of activity, Vata is of 5 types. 1. Prana 2. Udana 3. Vyana 4. Apana 5. Samana Prana vayu is located in the head, nose, tongue and the cheast. Its most important function is to control the mind and the respiratory activity.Udana Vayu is situated in umbilical region, chest and neck and is responsible for the Vocal functions. Samana Vayu is situated in the stomach and duodenum is responsible for the digestion of food material and separation of waste products. The regulation of body temperature, composition of body fluids and movement of Kapha and Pitta are also its important functions. Vyana Vayu is mainly situated in the heart and travels all over the body, regulates the circulation of blood and also the movement of the body. Apana Vayu is mainly situated in the intestines, rectum and the urinary bladder.Its main functions are secretion and evacuation of urine, semen, regulation of menstrual flow and expulsion of foetus and faeces. Pitta (Bile) The Pitta is blue and yellow in colour, liquid; light, viscous, acrid, sour in taste, fleshy and unpleasant in smell, hot to touch. It is the byproduct of blood. It imparts colour to the blood, promotes digestion, vision and is responsible for intellectual functions in the body. It is mainly responsible for the production of body heat, appetite, thirst, complexion, intelligence and courage. AYURVRDIC MEDICINE INDUSTRY IN INDIASeveral thousand companies in India produce Ayurvedic medicines, but most of them are quite small, including numerous neighborhood pharma cies that compound ingredients to make their own remedies. It is estimated that the total value of products from the entire Ayurvedic production in India is on the order of one billion dollars. Less than a dozen major companies have dominated the industry for decades, joined recently by few others that have followed their lead, so that there are today 30 companies doing a million dollars or more per year in business to meet the growing demand for Ayurvedic medicine.The products of these companies are included within the broad category of â€Å"Fast Moving Consumer Goods†. Most of the larger Ayurvedic medicine suppliers provide materials other than Ayurvedic internal medicines, particularly in the areas of foods and toiletries where there may be some overlap with Ayurveda, such as having traditional herbal ingredients in the composition of toiletries. Tulsi has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda for its diverse healing properties. It is mentioned by Charaka in the Ch araka Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text.Tulsi is considered to be an adaptive balancing different processes in the body, and helpful for adapting to stress. Marked by its strong aroma and astringent taste, it is regarded in Ayurveda as a kind of â€Å"elixir of life† and believed to promote longevity. The key suppliers in Ayurveda are Dabur, Baidyanath and Zandu, which together have about 85% of Indians domestic market. Various writers mention these and a handful of other companies repeatedly about the Ayurvedic business in India; a brief description is provided for them, arranged here from oldest to newest.Dabur India Ltd. India’s largest Ayurvedic medicines supplier and the fourth largest producer of FMCG. It was established in 1884, and had grown to a business level in 2003 of about 650 million dollars per year, through only a fraction of that is involved with Ayurvedic medicines. Last year, about 15% of sales volume was pharmaceuticals; the remaining 85% were most ly non-medicine items such as foods and cosmetics Daburs Ayurvedic Specialties Division has over 260 medicines for treating a range of ailments and body conditions from common cold to chronic paralysis.These materials constitute only 7% of Daburs total revenue. Dabur Chyawanprash has market share of 70% and chewable Hajmola Digestive Tablets has an 88% share. Other major products are Dabur Amla Hair Oil, Vatika and Lal Dant Manjan. Sri Baidyanath Ayurvedic Bhawan Ltd. Baidyanath was founded in 1917 in Calcutta, and specializes in Ayurvedic medicines, through it has recently expanded into the FMCG sector with cosmetic and hair care products; one of its International products in Shikakai (soap pod) Shampoo.Baidyanath has a sales volume of About 350 million dollars, but most of the products sales are in the cosmetic range. The company reports having over 700 ayurvedic products made at 10 manufacturing centers, With 1,600 employees. Included items are herbal Teas, patent medicines, mass age oil and Chawanprash. Zandu Pharmaceutical Works It was incorporated in Bombay in 1919, named after and 18th century Ayurvedic. The company focuses primarily on ayurvedic Products. However, today Zandu has chemicals division and cosmetics division.Its total sales volume is about 45 million dollars. One of its current projects is to develop a dopamine drug for a plant extract, applying for new drugs status in the U. S. Himalaya Drug Company Himalaya was established in 1934 in Banglore. It currently has a business level about 500 million dollars and has a U. S. distribution division. It is known in the U. S for the product Liv-52, marketed as a liver protector and therapy for liver diseases like vital hepatitis; the product was first marketed in India in 1955. Charak PharmaceuticalsCharak was founded in 1947, and currently has three distribution centers in India; it produces liquid, tablets and veterinary supplies. It has gained a large advantage with its new product Evanova, a pre paration containing 33 herbs and minerals and non-hormonal active ingredients used as menopause treatment alternatives to HRT. Soya is one of the main ingredients used in this product. The product also contains Ayurvedic herbs that act like selective estrogen receptor modulators as well as asparagus root, which reduces the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. Vicco LaboratoriesVICCO Laboratories was established in 1958. I t mainly produces topical therapies based on Ayurveda and is based on Ayurveda and is best known internationally for its toothpaste product, Vajradanti, which has been marketed in the U. S for more than 25 years. Emami Group Emami was founded in 1974, provides a diverse range of products, doing 110 million dollars of both business annually, through only a portion is involved with Ayurvedic product, through its Himani line; the company is mainly involved with toiletries and cosmetics, but also provides Chyawanprash and other health products.Aimil Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Incorporated in 1984 and engaged in manufacturing and sale of both generic and proprietary Ayurvedic medicines, with a business level about 20 million dollars annually. Its wide range of Ayurvedic herbal formulations, covering most therapeutic segments, was honored by the Indian government’s National Award for Quality Herbal preparations and National Award for R ; D in the year 2002. It is known for its proprietary formulas for hepatitis, diabetes, menstrual disorders, digestive disorders and urinary diseases. Several small companies that have grown rapidly in recent years envision hemselves as primary players in the Ayurvedic market. As an example, Viswakeerthy Ayurvedic medicines in India. Viswkeerthy Ayurvedic Pharmacy was founded by Dr. K. Mohammadkutty a great friend of Nature and Ayurveda. Started in 1977, as a fledging pharmacy, viswakeerthy today is one of the largest manufactures of Ayurvedic Medicines with a formidable presence all over Kerala. The dynamic lead ership of Dr. K. M. Kutty, complemented by the energetic drive of his team of young enthusiastic professionals has taken viswkeerthy Ayurvedic Pharmacy to new heights.The philosophy behind the inception was to â€Å"serve Humanity through Ayurveda- the Authentic Way† by propagating and practicing genuine Ayurveda and producing quality Ayurvedic medicines. Today, this philosophy has taken Viswakeerthy to new heights of Ayurvedic excellence. Realizing the importance of standardization of medicines and the modernization of production, Viswakeerthy took the significant step of updating the technology of the existing pharmacy and establishing a sophisticated private limited company, Viswkeerthy Herbals Pvt. Ltd at Kalpakanchery, Malappuram District of Kerala. Chapter -3COMPANY PROFILE Brief History The M. V. M organization was started in 1991 as a sole proprietorship of Mr. K. M BABU. During the preliminary stages the firm was producing only General medicines. Manivaidhyan is the father of K. M BABU, he had a hospital and he was an efficient Doctor. This unit was not profitable in its initial stages. The proprietor realizes the reasons for the failure and re-oriented the business. They decided to introduce a new product called â€Å"Krishnathulasi cough syrup†. The management formulated some new marketing techniques like giving more importance to advertisement.As a result, the sales turnover went up and the firm becomes profit. The name MVM is derived from the names of their beloved father Mani Vaidhyan. Mr. K. M Babu, the managing director is the backbone of the organization. The initial invest of the company was only 6 lakhs. The company commenced its commercial production during 1993 and with a short span it has grown into dominant establishment. The company could provide employment to more than 70 persons directly and they also provide opportunity to the distributors. After the manufacture of cough syrup the company developed one more product call ed â€Å"Krishnathulasi hair tonic’’. he company markets its products to different gulf counties through distributors. The company has scored a 100% growth rate with its innovative product range and drug category license are awaited from different countries. The company achieved the standard of ISO 9002 certification from well-reputed international agencies. All the machineries keep the GMP standard and are based on the latest technology and gives high performance and least wastages. The introduction of most modern equipments and implementation of high quality standards helps to stand in a par with international standard. COMPANY PROFILEFrom a dream seen by a visionary, Mr. K. M Babu, MVM has come a long way. Originating from a small makeshift research and developed center and Clinic, the first product hit the market. From such a humble beginning to research to the level of one of the Kerala’s largest Company has been a saga of dedication, commitment and applic ation. Today krishnathulasi has established an overwhelming presence across the globe with a vast range of products and services in Ayurvedic sector. The company has recorded a phenomenal growth rate during the current year while totaling the sales more than Rs 5 core.Moreover strategically sound marketing sense and techniques, employed by a talent pool of professional has seen to the increasing presence of the company’s products in the shop shelves around the world. The company has a full-fledged R;D facility where original research work is done on various divisions are headed by doctorate holders with long experience in Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Photochemistry etc†¦ The company has also initiated a scheme for the cultivation of the spices described in the famous Hothouse Malabaricus, the renowned 17th century work.A large number of these spices are lost or unidentifiable today. The objective is to identity those presumed lost and create a biological environment suita ble for the spices for the benefit of the future generation. Vision The company has an inspiring and ambitious vision for future growth. The vision targets the systematic popularization of Ayurveda so that by every human being shall use Ayuveda at least for meeting a part of his or her general health care needs. Mission The company is vowed to explore the vast Indian flora to bring out life saving herbal preparations with no side effects and 100% efficacy.The dedication with a missionary zeal and enthusiasm Mr. K. M Babu and his team of ayuvedic research are succeeding in curing diseases which other systems of medicines presumed incurable. Utmost purity and superlative standards are maintained by conscientious research and strict quality control measures for the people to enjoy the benefits of traditional ayurveda medicines. Product profile ETHICAL PRODUCTS OTC PRODUCTS Ethical Products Arishtams Choornams Kashayams Kuzhambus Lehyams Thailams OTC Products Krishnathulasi cough syrups Krishnathulasi hair tonic OTC PRODUCTS Krishnathulasi cough syrupKrishnathulasi cough syrup is the age-old, natural way of cough relief. A blend of 100% herbal ingredients, Krishnathulasi Cough syrup contains no sedatives or steroids and is free from any side effects. Raw materials used The main raw materials used in krishnathulasi cough syrups are Cardamom, Clove Ginger, Glucose, Kamtakari, Pepper, Sugar, Thulasi leaves, Vasaka, Yashtimadhu etc Dosage: Adults 1-2 teaspoons 4-6 times daily Children below 2 years: ? teaspoon 3-4 times daily Children 2-6 years: 1 teaspoon 3-4 times daily Children 6-12 years: 1-2 teaspoon 3-4 times daily Krishnathulasi hair tonicHair Tonic is a highly effective remedy for falling hair and premature graying. Use it and rejuvenate your hair from the root up. Raw materials The important raw materials used for the preparation of hair tonic are Amla, Brahmic, Cocooil, Kattarvazha, Kayyonni, Keizharmelli, Lemmon Dosage and Direction Apply on the scalp befor e every bath ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE Organizational structure is a basic framework within which the managers decision making behaviors takes place. Structure basically deals with relationships. The structure of a system is the arrangement of its subsystems and components at a given moment of time.Organization structure can be viewed as established pattern of relationships among the components of the organization. it refers to the differentiation and integration of activities and authority, role and relationships in the organization. It is the pattern in which various parts or components are interrelated or interconnected and also shows the relationships among various activities and position. Since various persons hold these positions, the structure is the relationship among people in the organization. Organization structure is set forth initially by the design of the major components or subsystem.It is the patterning of these relationships with some degree of permanency, which is r eferred to as Organization structure. Role of organization structure Organization structure is capable of serving many functions at the same time but cannot serve all the functions equally well over unlimited time. Structure created for one purpose may not serve other purpose well. Therefore, it is important for managers to determine the outcomes desired from organization structure; and to match the organization with changing needs. ORGANISATION CHART Chapter-4 DEPARTMENT PROFILE unctional departments * administrative department * research and development department * purchase department * production department * stores department * marketing department * finance department * human resource department PERSONNEL AND ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT Administrative department is considered to be the brain of every concern. It sets the goals and objectives to be accomplished and formulate plans and decision. The administrative Officer Mr. Mohanan Nair heads this department in MVM and is suppor ted by assistant administrative officer.There are other two office assists working as subordinate assistant administrative officer. At mvm, the administrative departments’ looks after the personnel management function also. Around 70 workers are employed in the organization including 50 workers and 20 office staffs. The office hours in the company starts at 10 am and finishes at 5. 30 pm. while the factory hour is from 8. 30 am to 5. 30 pm. It is obvious that there exists strong industrial relation with in the organization. Both the officers and workers are free to communicate with the managing director about their problems and suggestions.Hence it is clear that an open door policy of communication is followed. The general body meeting of the organization is conducted once in every two months and management review meeting is conducted weekly. The management gives adequate weight age to employees’ suggestions in the meeting. The workers also have adequate participation in the decision making process. So they are more loyal to the company and no trade unions are followed to grow with in the concern. The company is undertaking various welfare measures to ensure safety and security to the workers. Both monetary and non-monetary benefits are offered to them.The facilities such as medical allowances, canteen facilities etc are enjoyed by the employees. In case of any overtime work, extra charges and transport facilities are made available to the workers. The organization follows a time rate system of wage payment. They pay remuneration to the workers on monthly basis. As production is carried out under strict supervision, it does not give rise to idle time. Since the administrative department undertakes the functions of personal department also, they manage the recruitment, selection and training of personnel. Selection of candidates is made through interviews and on-the job training.Following are the expenses met by the Company * Raw material cost * M anufacturing expenses * Labor cost * Selling expenses * Administrative expenses Recruitment and selection In MVM recruitment of new employees were selected from the candidate by advertisement is released in newspaper. This department has to analyze each job to determine the nature of work, the necessary qualification, required training etc. Selection process Most of the companies follow different process of selects a person. Following are the important process of selection. * Screening of application * Interview Final selection * Inviting application * Performance Appraisal Performances of the employees are appraised on the basis of their commitment toward the work, their regular attendance and the quality of work done. For the Performance appraisal following factors are included; * Job knowledge * Efficiency * Achievement of target * Co-operative * Communication * Organizing ability * Leadership * Judgment * Physical and Mental stamina * Discipline * Attendance * Punctuality * Moti vation * Integrity Financial benefits Company provides various financial assistance for its workforce.It includes educational benefits for family members and financial benefits incase of emergency situation. Fringe benefits They provide Employment provident fund to their employees and also provides bonus to their employees. The following benefits are * Traveling allowances * Annual leaves * Compensation leave * Medical benefits Grievance handling In MVM if an employee is not satisfied with the decision of the head of the department we can approach straight the general manager. Again if he is not satisfied with the decision of the general manager he can approach to the managing director.Wages and Salary Administration * The wages of employee consist of basic wages, dearness allowances, provident fund, Incentives and bonus. The salary is fixed to the office staff and wages are paid to the workers. * Salary is fixed according to the seniority and positions of the employees. * Wages are paid according to the minimum wages act to the workers. * Company also provides additional bonus and long term incentives. * The company is also providing medical care facilities etc RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT The R;D department is well equipped to carry out any type of research in the field of ayurveda.Research department is the core area for MVM as all products are developed there under the keen supervision of Dr. Vincent. Mrs. Leelamma Babu is the chief of R;D department. Under R;D department there are five departments- Department of Pharmacology, Dept. of Quality control Dept. of Chemistry and Dept. of Botany. Dept of Chemistry has two divisions- Dept of Biochemistry and Dept. of Analytical Chemistry. Each these sub departments has two assistants. The department of Quality control and Pharmaceutics are followed by two assistants. All the product of MVM is the output of this department.All the products are 100% natured ayurvedic formulation. The official declaration and recognition of MVM is another noticeable achievement added to the crown of the Company. PURCHASE DEPARTMENT The purchase departments make all purchase for the company. The purchasing function has emerged as a specialized organizational activity. His success of the purchasing department depends upon the quality of the inputs and also upon the ability of the purchasing department personnel to analyze the inputs to the fullest extent. Mr. Isac is the head of purchase department. He has an assistant manager followed by two assistants.The company makes all the purchases only after obtaining purchase requisition from the stores department. Purchase department has appropriate store coding for all of its raw materials and for packing materials. Cartoons and wrappers are purchased on job order basis. Packing materials are purchased from Sivakasi in Tamilnadu and plant was purchased from Thankasi. Most of the raw materials are purchased from outside Kerala, especially from Tamilnadu. Some ar e cultivated in the Company’s own garden. Purchase are made both on cash and credit basis, the suppliers usually give thirty or more days to make payments.PROCEDURE The stores department generate purchase indent when the stock level maintained at the store reaches the reorder level. The purchase indent is handed over; with this purchase order materials are reorder. Goods inward note is prepared based on the incoming materials. Quality check is conducted on the incoming material to check whether the material stand up to the standard stipulated under the acceptable norms. Then they will prepare store inward note. According to the requirement of the production department the materials are issued. R;D Request Purchase DeptStores Purchase Indent Materials Receives Stores AcceptReject PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT This department is headed by the production manager –Mr. Vinodh and immediately followed by the production manager. The production supervisor and packing supervisors is su bordinate to the assistant manager and they are assisted by production assistant and packing assistant respectively. There are separate workers for both production and packing. The various products manufactured are subject to inspection by the quality inspector t ensuring that they are up to the standard.The plant is equipped with modern machineries and operations are organized under the watchful eyes of talented physicians and health scientists. Production and manufacturing facilities are fully geared for the mass production of Ayurvedic medicines in strict adherence to ancient Ayurvedic scriptures. Incorporation of modern technology for mass production, upholding traditional value, makes the facilities a well-integrated synthesis of tradition and modernity. The Company's manufacturing operations are mechanized to a large extent by making further contributions by way of hygiene, accuracy and speed.There are nearly 50 workers, both male and female, working under production and packi ng section respectively. These workers are paid on monthly basis. For any overtime work, extra charges are paid and transport facilities are also provided. Other facilities such as canteen are also provided to the workers. Production Process * . Raw material Verification * . Pulverization * Grinding * Boiling * Continuous staring of materials * Finishing * Packing MAINTENANCE WING Maintenance is very important to extend the useful life of an asset. maintenance has not only to reduce scheduled stoppage time but attempt to void unscheduled stoppages and breakdowns by frequent performance checking, testing and providing inspection and skillful repair when required to ensure better service, availability and reliability. The effectiveness of production is highly dependant on the quality of maintenances service facility. For the proper maintenance and repair of plant and machinery, a separate maintenance wing functions under the control of General Manager. The principal objectives of this wing; * Is to maximize the availability and reliability of assets. * To extend the useful life of assets by minimizing wear and tear and deterioration. to ensure operational readiness of all equipment required for emergency use at all times * To ensure safety of personnel using facilities. This wing includes fitter, electrician and plumber. This wing carries out both preventive maintenance and breakdown maintenance. Preventive maintenance is done as and when required. With the permission of General Manager, outside agencies are considered for special cases and paid separately. PACKING SECTION Packing is defined as the general group of activities in product planning, which involve designing and producing the container or wrapper for a product.There is a separate section for the packing of the products. Manufacturing date, expiry date etc is printed on the wrappers. In India, they use different language targeting different states. Important decisions regarding packing and labeling is taken by top management. STORES DEPARTMENTS The success of every business depends to a large extent on the efficient storage and material control. As all the activities in any organization cannot be carried out at one point of time, storage is an inevitable process. Stores department shall check the material received and confirm that the material supplied meets all purchase order chart condition.Stores department is under the control of purchase manager followed by store manager, then storekeeper. The storekeeper looks after the various activities related to the store-keeping department. They are keeping minimum stock to every product. They are keeping 200 cases of Krishnathulasi cough syrup as minimum and in the case of hair tonic, they keep 100 cases. Purchase manager stores manager stores keeper MARKETING DEPARTMENTS The modern market is consumer oriented market and it deals with customers. A satisfied customer is a good advertiser of that product. So customer satisfaction is ve ry important.Marketing department is the nerve system of MVM. Marketing manager Mr. Vinodh manages the function of this department with the assistance of area sales manager and assistant marketing manager. Area sales manager is intended to control the external marketing functions and the assistant manager controls the internal functions of marketing. The sales officer follows the area sales manager and assistant marketing manager and sales representative is the immediate subordinate of Sales Officer. The main function of this department is to ensure uninterrupted distribution of products to the customers.It makes a market study with the help of out side agencies to know the demand for their respective products and supply is made accordingly. Now they are ready to market new products. Their main product Krishnathulasi cough syrup is supplied to almost every state within India. The company has successfully exported to Malaysia, Singapore and other gulf countries and is aiming to tap t he market of USA. all the distribution activities are done with the help of distributors, their main agece are Monark Internationals and Star exporters. They were gave 10-12% commission to the wholesalers.ADVERTISEMENT POLICY TV, Radio and News papers are the main modes of advertisement. They will spend more than 1crore per year for the advertisement activities. MVM has the policy of direct advertisement; there is no agency for it. Distributing Agency Agencies around Kerala The main agencies of MVM around Kerala are * Indian Drug House –Trivandrum * AB Agency,A&Associates-Kollam * Rose Pharma-Kochi * Sydha agencies-Kozhikodu Outside Agencies The outside agencies are * Kottakkel-bombay * Vivek traders-Maglore PROCEDURES FOLLOWING FOR A NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT Step – 1 Market analysisMarket analysis is a process including the evaluation of the existing market condition in order to find out the nature and trend of the market. It is the best way to find out the strength an d weakness of the close competitors and it is very easy to identify the procedures which are of very powerful and useful to compete and to be one of the successful companies in the industry. Market analysis is the best way to tackle with the customer’s tastes and preferences. It will help the firm in order to launch the production in a very conducive environment, and it is very important for the better survival of the company.Market analysis helps the company in order to find out whether there is any similar type of product or where there is any product which is existing in the market which can be of offer tight competition with our products. Step – 2 Fixing of affordable price (Pricing) A firm whether it is a new firm or an already existing firm, the main target of the firm is the objective that is the maximization of profit. It is possible only by boosting of sales towards the maximum extent and which should be cash sales and with ultimately carefully settled price w ith an intelligence analytical decision.Pricing is exactly the main sensible area of business operation, because any decision whether it is favorable for the organization or not favorable for the organization it is having a very deep impact on the close survival of the company. Whether the price settled is of lesser than the anticipated price or the price of the competitors the product will some time will be accepted but the ultimate result for the firm will be of negative and a huge loss is the final result.If the price settled is considerable higher than the price of the competitors the product will summarily be rejected in the market, because there is plenty of choice for the customers to go for considerably lesser cost project with a required quality. Hence decision regarding the pricing of the product is very important and the price so fixed should be very reasonable and affordable by the customers. This kind of decision is only possible by a close analysis of the market. The b est way analysis and comparison of the prices, the product which of substitutable character with our product or having the products ith same quality or same character. Step -3 Availability of potential distributors The success of a particular product is lying on the clear cut distribution. There should be potential distributed must be there in order to promote proper distribution and clearance of goods from the go down of the firm. There should be prompt payment should ensure on the part of the distributor. In order for the better survival of the product in the general market. The way to find out a better distributor is on the shoulders of the potential marketing departments through efficient marketing executives.Step – 4 Reaching of the final consumer through the retailer The success of new product is that point at which it is received by the consumer and when the product is accepted by the end user. Here the actual role is playing by the sales executives and selling departm ent. Retailer so selected must be of having the potentiality to market the product with so care and ability. The sales executives must paid clear attention on the after distribution follow-up, because exhibiting the product on the vicinity of the consumer is paying a crucial part for the movement of the goods in the highly competitive industry.FINANCE DEPARTMENT Finance is considered as the life blood of every business. Hence finance department has significant importance in business organization. In this organization, finance Director- Mrs. Licy controls finance department. The accountant is subordinate to the Director and Accounts Manager assists him. The accounts Manager is immediately followed by three assistants who help in carrying out the functioning of the department. The main function of the department is to manage the available finance efficiently and to keep the books of accounts up to date.It is evident from the records that the company has made an interesting tendency in profit percentage and the turnover for the year 2007-2008 was around Rs. 6 crore. The company uses both owned and borrowed fund. Corporate bank provides the main source of borrowed fund. They also have a good forienexchange record by export in their product. Internal audit is done during the years in the organization. Cost per bottle Cost of cough syrup-24. 90 Cost of Hair tonic-79 Chapter-5 COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS 5. 1 SWOT ANALYSIS Strength 1. Peaceful atmosphere is maintained in the company. 2. There is no trade union in the company. . No chance of strikes and disputes inside the organization. 4. Workers participation in decision making process. 5. Both the workers and employees are sincere and loyal to the company. 6. The employees are satisfied with their working environment. 7. Less labour turnover. 8. R& D department plays an important role in the growth of the organization. 9. The company has diversified range of products. 10 The products of MVM have a good brand image. Weakne ss 1. Some of the raw materials are brought from different parts of India . 2. Most of the customers were unaware about the classical products. 3.Lack of advertisements in other states. 4. Sales promotion measures for classical products are less compared to other types of products. OPPURTUNITIES 1. The company had a greater opportunity to expand their brand in more nations. 2. Because of wide variety of products the company is expected to be more successful. 3. Fast growing market. 4. Globalization. THREATS 1. Fast growing technology 2. Competitors have stronger brand names. 3. Allopathic treatment gives fast relief compared to ayurveda. Chapter-6 FINDINGS, SUGGETIONS AND CONCLUSION 6. 1 FINDINGS * The management and employees maintains a good relationship. The employees were satisfied with their working environment. * The employees are remunerated with time rate system. * There is no trade union in the organization. * The company has a full-fledged R&D department. * The company giv es utmost importance to product quality. * Good services for the customers. 6. 2 SUGGESTIONS * Purchasing raw materials from outside is very expensive so, it would be more economical if they arrange it by themselves. * Should give more importance to advertisement. * Packing of the products should be made more attractive. * They should expand their product line Conduct market surveys for identifying the customer needs 6. 3 CONCLUSION The study had been carried out to analyze the functioning of various departments. It helps me to understand the functions of various departments of the organization. The company is managed by professionally qualified and experienced team of managers and staffs. The company was established under the name and style of MVM in 1992. MVM achieve greater heights during the past two decades in ayurveda. Today MVM Herbal India has established an overwhelming presence across the globe with a vast range of products and services in Ayurvedic sector.The company is a foot to forge ahead with the soul intention of ensuring harmony of body, mind and soul. The company has an inspiring and ambitious vision for future growth. BIBLIOGRAPHY * Chabra T. N, Human Resource Management – Dhanapat Rai &Company private limited,NewDelhi,2003. * Panday IM, Financial management-Vikas Publishing House private Limited,NewDelhi,2004 * Prasad LM ,principle &practices of Mgt, Sultan Chand and sons publications,NewDelhi 2004 * Department Files * Annual reports * Company Website