Approaches to Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Approaches to Research - Essay Example But the challenge to food processors is really conducting what is called the byproduct development work. To this end there is no clear delineation that exists which describes main components for an effective byproduct development program. This proposal looks at the best strategic methodology that could assist in filling this void. It looks into ways of quantifying, identifying, developing, characterizing, optimizing, analyzing and modeling the waste stream of interest (Dalzell, 2000). The approach to byproduct development gives an inclusive strategy that can be used to more effectively manage industrial food waste. Remember that this methodology is not only applicable to food processing operations, but any industrial or manufacturing firm could benefit from instituting the formal components to be recommended. Hence if the various methodologies are implemented by manufacturers, this would increase the probability of meeting the goals of industrial ecology which are the developing and operating sustainable systems. Justification It will be realized that cost cutting programs in the industry rely heavily on lowering labor costs but, any major category of spending provides an opportunities for cost savings in industry. One of the areas that are over-looked is the area waste management. It is a common knowledge that Waste removal costs are always rising landfills all across the world are nearing the end of their lifespan. Again take note that recycling is getting more complicated and expensive and note forgetting the rising fuel costs which aren't borne by the waste haulers but which are simply passed on to the customers (Dalzell, 2000). Universally there exist many different waste management solutions available for the food manufacturing industry but it is not good to wait for the waste hauling companies to discuss them because these commercial waste hauling and recycling firms have a direct financial disincentive towards assisting food manufacturers to reduce the volume of waste and the costs associated to disposal. Remember that waste disposal is at times seen as an uncomplicated process in that workers collect and sort trash from recycling and then run loads to the dumpster several number of times per day or shift. This waste is collected by a contracted waste hauler at scheduled times and hours. But, industry owners, maintenance, directors managers and operations personnel have knowledge. Hence according to them waste management can be a major nuisance which poses issues that impact on efficiency, safety, floor space available, and also employee morale when excess waste accumulates. Furthermore, the production demands keep on varying while pick up charges remain the constant whether the dumpster is full or not. Take note that research indicates that up to 80% of a full dumpster is air space which means that 80 cents of each dollar that is spent on waste collecting services is literally thrown away. However, there are ways to improve waste handling in the food manufacturing industry to the extent that it not only leads to reduced costs but also enhances operations. Those responsible for making the waste process more efficient and cost effective are familiar with the various options that have been available for the past few

Why do many managers prefer that their employees work in teams Essay

Why do many managers prefer that their employees work in teams - Essay Example Managers of a majority of companies across the world desire and decide that their employees should work in teams because they think teamwork will improve efficiency and make the employees more satisfied. But from the research done so far and from the results obtained from the experiments of teamwork in companies, it is clear that teamwork need not necessarily deliver the outcomes that managers envisage. The problems in teamwork arise from it being something that involves humans who have different perceptions on one matter. Also it is very difficult to ensure equal opportunity in a team where talents at different levels act together. The hierarchy inside a team is also problematic. It is in this context that it is argued that teamwork is not delivering. At the same time, the proponents of teamwork have drawn attention to the successful outcomes that teamwork has brought about. History of teamwork Managers consider teamwork as a motivating factor and this was why GenXers of America wer e introduced with teamwork in their work places, which was a first time corporate reform of its kind (Appelbaum, Serena and Shapiro, 2004, 12). It was supposed to give more personal responsibility to them (Appelbaum, Serena and Shapiro, 2004, 12). It was also understood as originating from the GenXers’ search for sense of belonging (Appelbaum, Serena and Shapiro, 2004, 12). There have been many approaches in understanding and defining teamwork. It was initially observed that through teamwork, certain management objectives like, â€Å"positive attitude, risk-taking, individual and group responsibility and supportiveness have been achieved albeit very unevenly† (Findlay et al., 2000, 1567). By projecting the results of the small experiments of teamwork to a wider canvas, better productivity and more positive employee attitudes and behavior were expected of work-teams (Kirkman, Jones and Shapiro, 2000). Another viewpoint also emerged which saw teamwork as a function of em ployee self-aggrandizement by allowing the employees to make decisions in a creative manner (Ivancevich, n.d., 198). All these discussions, though defines teamwork differently, show how much value that new generation managements put in teamwork. Has employees welcomed teamwork ? There has been mixed response from the side of employees towards teamwork. One interesting criticism against teamwork has been that the employees were initially â€Å"bewitched† into teamwork rather than being logically convinced (McCabe, 2000, 209). But this argument is in a way, self-defeating because it agrees that employees have been accepting teamwork. By introducing teamwork, managements were trying to convince the employees that they were entering a new and more democratic cultural ambience (McCabe, 2000, 209). But later employees could not but see the inconsistencies in this management position. But if employees are disillusioned with teamwork as its critics say, then the question arises why t eamwork has become such a catchy phrase in management. Another allegation that though the employees value teamwork as positive, â€Å"employees are protective of social difference within their ranks† (Findlay et al., 2000, 22). But it has to be kept in mind that the employees have been used to the social hierarchies involved with the conventional management structure, for very long. Hence, to argue that they would be rebelling against a less hierarchical situation is highly illogical. Does teamwork, really work? Why? The commonsense promoted at managerial levels of organizations that teamwork is beneficial to employees and it will enhance productivity is found to be only partially true by researchers (McCabe, 2000; Findlay et al, 2000). Findlay et al. (2000) have been critical