Statistics Homework Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Statistics Homework - Assignment Example When it comes to making forecasts using multiple regression, we must consider not only whether each independent variable value is reasonable by itself, but also whether the chosen combination of predictor values is reasonable. From the multiple regression, it is possible to compare the slopes of two or more regression lines and test whether the  slopes  and intercepts are significantly different". The null hypothesis could read that the slopes for the two groups are not significantly different. We compare the p-value with the If p-value< we reject the null hypothesis and conclude that conclude that the slopes for the two groups are different. From the figure below, R-squared value is 0.09232 implying that only approximately 9.232% of variation in price is explained by carA. The coefficient of carA on the other hand is -28463, this shows that the price of cars with no garage is much more, those with garage are -28463 cheaper. From the figure below, R-squared value is 0.01968 implying that only approximately 1.968% of variation in price is explained by carA. The coefficient of carA on the other hand is -14845, this shows that the price of cars with one garage is much more, those with more than one garage are -14845 cheaper. From the figure below, R-squared value is 0.1549 implying that only approximately 1.968% of variation in price is explained by carA and carB.

Algebraic expressions.Elementary and Intermediate Algebra Essay Example for Free

Algebraic expressions.Elementary and Intermediate Algebra Essay Algebraic expressions Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the introduction to Algebra, the first assignment for the first week will involve using real numbers in place of integers to simplify expressions. Everyone needs to take his/her time to grasp the rules and the steps which are followed in algebra as this will form a concrete base for the algebraic expression understanding. One needs to understand the mathematical fundamental elements so as not to incur problems in solving any algebraic problems. For instance, one needs to be clear with the properties of integers as these are the same properties which apply to the real numbers. The first step in dealing with equations is removing the parenthesis. If an equation requires you remove the parenthesis from the equation, distribution becomes a necessity. Like terms should be grouped together when multiplying the integers that are inside the parenthesis to perform any indicated operation (Dugopolski, M.(2012  ), 2, p.67).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The following is how I attempted to handle the assigned equations in the simplest form. In the left side of the page, I have put the mathematic equation, and in the right side there is my explanation of the steps I followed. 2a(a-5)+4(a-5) Equation =2a ²-10a+4a-20 remove the distributive properties from the parenthesis = 2a ² -6a-20 then we get the coefficient. =a ²- 3a 10 then we simplify the expression. In the next equation, 2.  2w-3+3(w-4)-5(w-6) the equation =2w-3+3w-12-5w+30   remove the distributive properties from the parenthesis =2w+3w-5w-3-12+30 then we get the coefficients and. =15 combine them In the third equation, 3. 0.05(0.3m+35n)-0.8(-0.09n-22m) the equation =0.015m+1.75n+0.072n+17.6m remove the distributive property from the parenthesis =0.015m+17.6m+1.75n+0.072n simplify by putting the like terms together and =17.615m+1.822n combine them References Dugopolski, M. (2012  ). Elementary and Intermediate Algebra. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. Source document

Essay --

There is compelling evidence that cognitive dysfunction is inherent to Parkinson’s disease (PD) (Aarsland et al. 2003; Aarsland et al. 2007a; Aarsland et al. 2010a). Clinical manifestations of cognitive deterioration in PD range from slight deficits -only demonstrable by means of comprehensive neuropsychological testing - up to dementia (Muslimovic et al. 2005; Aarsland et al. 2009; Foltynie et al. 2004). From the earliest stages of the disease, including drug-naà ¯ve subjects, patients suffering from PD may show cognitive impairment (CI). This can be restricted to a single domain or affects multiple cognitive domains (Muslimovic et al. 2005; Foltynie et al. 2004). Based on recent longitudinal studies, there is some evidence suggesting that, along the evolution of the disease, a subgroup of patients presenting defects on distinct cognitive domains will eventually deteriorate to the point of dementia associated to PD (PDD) (Aarsland et al. 2003; Buter et al. 2008; Hely et al. 2008; Emre et al. 2007). Starting on a similar theoretical approach than those used for MCI in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) -where early cognitive deterioration linearly progress to dementia- (Petersen et al. 2001a; Petersen et al. 2001b) an operative redefinition of the construct of MCI in PD has been proposed to identify and diagnose these initial cognitive deficits as early indicators of PDD (Caviness et al. 2007). Historically, MCI has been considered as the transitional stage between normality to dementia, based on the measurable presence of cognitive dysfunctions in single or multiple cognitive domains without concurring disabilities on activities of daily living (Petersen 2004). MCI in AD usually follows a linear progression from subtle deficits to dementia (... ...mild cognitive impairment to dementia in PD patients is characterized by the addition of cortical-type cognitive deficits atop a prominent and progressive frontal-striatal dysfunction. Besides the search for biomarkers, a usefulness definition and development of diagnostic criteria for PD-MCI, should consider to: (i) delimitate the heterogeneous cognitive deficit of PD and how we can accurately assess it in large sample of PD subjects; (ii) establish with prospective studies whether the prognostic value of the severity and the nature of the cognitive deficits; (iii) find a consensus of the minimum of cognitive tasks and instruments to assess cognition in PD and finally, (iv) delimitate the role played by common PD-related neuropsychiatric features such apathy or visual hallucinations as early markers of dementia in absence of evident neuropsychological impairment.

Walcotts Collected Poems and Roys The God of Small Things :: comparison compare contrast essays

Post-Colonial and Post-Modernist View of Walcott's Collected Poems and Roy's The God of Small Things      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Language was not so much a distinguishing sign of a soul or spirituality, which animals do not possess, as a social practice which enhanced survival of the species"-Nietzche. Nietzche reminded twentieth century intellectuals of the decisive role of language in the construction of human experience of 'reality'. With his 'perspectivism' and relativism, truth, whether artistic or scientific was seen as a social matter and a linguistic product, the displacement of one set of figures of speech by another, with knowledge the interrelations of signifiers in a field of experience made of prior interpretations. (Irving Howe, 80).    Thus in Walcott's poems and in Roy's 'The God of Small Things' modernism was further routed by inversion of ethical values as power tools for survival and exploitation, and of art as a veil over a reality describable only as wanton, godless procreation. This conception of a dynamic world of super changed energies of unimaginable force, often in violent conflict and ever-changing relations, came to resemble Freud's concept of id.    We observe, in their writings (Walcott and Roy) the apparently rational surface of consciousness hides a mass of tangled and conflicting desires, impulses and needs. The outer person is a mere papering-over of the cracks of a split and waring complex of selves driven by life and death instincts.    Walcott in his poem 'The Divided Child' writes,    There was your heaven ! The clear glaze of another life, a landscape locked in amber, the rare gleam. The dream of reason had produced its monster : a prodigy of the wrong age and colour. (Walcott 145).    According to him, language was not the transparent tool for the objective representation of a stable reality: ethics was not expressive of a discovered system of absolute values or religion other than a desire for parental protection throughout life.    He writes in his poem 'Lampfall,' And I'm elsewhere, far as I shall ever be from you whom I behold now, Dear family, dear friends, by this still glow The lantern's ring that the sea's Never extinguished Your voices curl in the shell of my ear. (Walcott 95).    When Roy was asked in an interview, 'What does it mean to be Indian?' she replied: 'Do we ask, 'What does it mean to be American or to be British?

Does God cause bad things to happen to His children? Essay

As one goes through life, tragedy and misfortune seem inevitable. One may be afflicted by diseases, involved in an accident or one’s child could die. Some people may consider this as purely bad luck. Others yet may consider it as karma coming back to haunt them for their past wrongdoings and transgressions. Nevertheless, it is common for people to question if God is the force behind the bad things. The question then arises, does God indeed cause bad things to happen to his children, or is there some force behind it? As long as one has faith and belief in God, the question is inevitable at certain points in life. However, the question as to whether God really does cause bad things to happen to his people is openly debatable. On the one hand, believers and non-believers alike would like to think that God punishes us and causes bad things to happen. To this group of people, God is trying to teach His children a lesson in addition to bringing them back to glory. On the other hand, others are of the opinion that God causes bad things to happen to them just to get their attention or to get His point across. The Book of Romans, 8: 28 – And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose, forms the basis of this argument (Nelson, 1982). Free will. It would be safe to argue that God does not in any way cause bad things to happen to his children. In John 3: 16, the Bible talks of the undying love that God has for his earthly children that he gave his only son to die so that they could be saved from eternal damnation (Nelson, 1982). Accordingly, God has accorded human beings with the necessary freedom to act as they wish on earth but has also provided the rules that are to guide their action. More over, the consequences for disobedience have clearly been stated. The Good Book, the Bible, contains the Ten Commandments that God’s children are to abide by. Flouting the rules results in tragedy and misfortune. When people misuse their freedom, they cause bad things to happen to them. Too much of anything is poisonous. Concomitantly, too much freedom is harmful. Out of free will or freedom, men commit murder and even genocide (McLarty, N. d. ). When people err and disobey his rules and commandments they are separated from God love. This is what is referred to as falling from grace in the Bible. Thus, the same freedom accorded us by God is the same freedom that separates men from the love of God and also causes bad things to happen. It is worth noting that faith does not in any way qualify as some kind of insurance policy. On the contrary, it can only be described as a mantle of assurance (Riverpower. org, 2008). Consequently, there is no way that God causes bad things to happen to his children because He has assured in His Holy Word that He will be with us no matter what we encounter or go through in this life. This is because He is considered to be an all caring all loving God. He hurts when His children hurt which then means that there is no way that God would then cause suffering, tragedy and death. However, one can then ask the question. Since God is all loving, all caring and does not want his people to suffer, how is it that he does not stop bad things from happening? This takes us back to the point that God has accorded his children with free will that they are to apply accordingly. One has the option to do good or evil, both of which have consequences. It is openly clear that God operates under certain rules. Unlike humans who openly flout the rules provided for them, God does indeed respect his own rules. He keeps his end of the bargain as long as his children keep theirs. He will rescue those who call out to him and ask for his help because he is all loving and caring (Riverpower. org, 2008). If God was the cause of both good and bad things happening to his children, it would be tantamount to control. This would then make nonsense of the freedom/free will he has given to His people. Again, control would only serve to make them like puppets. God does not in any way seem to supersede human free will to choose their best course of action and enjoy the benefits or suffer the consequences after ward. The first evidence that God does not override the free will/freedom he has accorded his children is in the Book of Genesis. In the Garden of Eden, He had provided Adam and Eve with the necessities plus he also put rules in place that they were to adhere to; not to eat from the tree at the centre of the Garden (Nelson, 1982). He then let them choose their own actions. Consequently, he decided not to interfere with Eve even when she chose to eat from the forbidden tree. Ultimately, God does not in any way cause bad things to happen to his children rather they bring it upon themselves.

How to Become a Dietitian or Nutritionist

How to Become a Dietitian or Nutritionist As Americans face a growing obesity crisis and ever-growing awareness about how what we eat affects our health, medical professionals in the field of dietetics are key members of that front line. Behind every public program like healthier school lunch initiatives or campaigns to fight Type 2 diabetes, dietitians and nutritionists are the ones using science to set healthy food guidelines and diet plans. The Day-to-DayDietitians and nutritionists work in a variety of settings, from healthcare settings (hospitals and clinics) to government (public health agencies) to the private sector (food manufacturing and distribution companies). They may work directly with patients to create and maintain diet plans to lose weight or improve health, but they might also work on larger-scale public health programs to encourage healthy eating to broader populations. You can also find dietitians working on nutrition guidelines and food safety in the government or in private companies. Their tasks often include:Designing diets that target specific conditions, like obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressureHelping patients maintain diets for health or weight loss, and ensuring that patients are dieting safelyDeveloping nutrition programs for an entire facilityImproving accuracy in food labels and advertisingWorking with agencies and manufacturers to improve food safetyResearching how food and nutrition interact with the body and various conditionsEducating the public (broadly or in specific targeted populations) on nutrition, food safety, and healthy lifestyle practicesDietitians and nutritionists typically work a standard full-time work week in an office or clinic setting.  For more on dietetics and what it’s like to be a dietitian or nutritionist, check out these videos:A Day in the Life: DietitianHow to Become a Registered Dietitian/NutritionistAsk a Nutritionist with Shira LenchewskiIs Being a Nutritionist Right for You?The RequirementsMost dietitians and nutritionists h ave a bachelor’s degree, and have completed a residency, internship, or other form of supervised training. Most states require a license for dietitians and nutritionists, so be sure to check your own state’s requirements if you’d like to start down this career path.The SkillsThe dietetics field calls for a number of special skills and knowledge bases, including:Attention to detailMath and science (particularly biology, food science, and biochemistry)Critical thinkingPatient evaluationAnatomy and physiologyDisease managementPublic health implementationThe PayPer the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for dietitians/nutritionists is $56,950, or $27.38 per hour. In addition, the field offers a lot of fulfillment for its members. According to a survey conducted by PayScale, the average dietitian is â€Å"extremely satisfied† in his or her career.The OutlookAs mentioned before, the renewed focus on food and nutrition, both on a national a nd personal health level, means that this is a gangbusters-level field for growth. Openings in dietetics are expected to grow at least 16% by 2014, which is significantly faster than average.Interested? APPLY HERE

HRM Term Paper on ADA Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers

HRM Term Paper on ADA Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers HRM Term Paper on ADA Introduction On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law with the intent to make the American workplace more accessible to people with disabilities. It was signed by former president George H.W Bush, who said ?I know there may have been concerns that the ADA may be too vague or too costly, or may lead endlessly to litigation. But I want to reassure you right now that my administration and the United States Congress have carefully crafted this Act. We've all been determined to ensure that it gives flexibility, particularly in terms of the timetable of implementation; and we've been committed to containing the costs that may be incurred.... Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down It affords similar protections against discrimination to Americans with disabilities as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which made discrimination based on race, religion, sex, national origin, and other characteristics illegal. According to the most recent text of the ADA, which was amended in 2008, the definition of disability is ?a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual; a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment? (www.ada.gov). This further protects individuals with disabilities in recruitment, screening, hiring, promotions, layoffs and termination, and any other terms or conditions of employment. Private employers, state and local governments, employment agencies, and labor unions are covered in the act. In addition, the ADA applies to all aspects of participation in society, including employment, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications. The ADA prepares employees by providing appropriate information and personnel training on the provisions of the ADA, its relevance to the functioning of the organization as a whole, and the responsibilities of specific personnel. The ADA is also undergoing continuous review and interpreta tion in the courts. Many people have set themselves up as experts on the ADA. They believe that they are experts on how to remove architectural barriers, how to build a ramp or refit a bathroom to comply with ADA standards. Unfortunately in too many cases, the so-called experts do not know about the ADA standards and their errors have been costly to people who relied on their help. There are no certificates or licenses for the ADA and those who claim that they are certified or licensed ADA experts are not telling the truth. The best advice is to consult your local Center for Independent Living and use reputable architects and builders who are familiar with ADA architectural standards and requirements. This is the best way to prevent a costly and lengthy lawsuit. Brief History The ADA is the most comprehensive federal civil rights legislation protecting the rights of people with disabilities. Passed by the United States Congress in 1990, the ADA addresses the barriers and discrimination that people with disabilities have traditionally faced. The legislature covers access to employment, state and local government programs and services, access to places of public accommodations, transportation, non-profits service providers and telecommunications. The ADA has been amended several times since its passage in 1990, with the most recent amendment in 2008, which became effective on January 1st, 2009. Purpose of the ADA The purpose of the Americans with Disabilities Act is ?to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities; to provide clear, strong, consistent, enforceable standards addressing discrimination against individuals with disabilities; to ensure that the Federal Government plays a central role in enforcing the standards established on behalf of individuals with disabilities; and to invoke the sweep of congressional authority, including the power to enforce the fourteenth amendment and to regulate commerce, in order to address the major areas of discrimination faced day-to-day by people with disabilities.? (www.ada.gov/pubs) Title I The Americans with Disabilities Act is divided into five titles, employment being the first. Title I became effective July 26, 1992 for employees of 25 or more workers and July 26, 1994 for employees with 15 or more workers. Title I is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This title states that businesses must provide reasonable accommodations to protect the rights of qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of

How To Drive a $221 ROI Using Promoted Content on Facebook

How To Drive a $221 ROI Using Promoted Content on Facebook How would you like to make $22 on every $1 spent promoting content? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, let’s find out. Today, we’re talking to Freyja Spaven and Daniel Daines-Hutt, authors of How We Drive A $22:1 ROI From Cold Traffic, Using Facebook And Promoted Content. They share secrets to their success when it comes to researching, planning, designing, copywriting, and testing to promote content via paid ads on Facebook. AmpMyContent helps small business that have funds, but are time poor and unable to leverage content Tweaking content to make it 10X more effective Paid Ad Process: Ad goes to cold audience Drives them to piece of content Presents hyper-specific, next-step offer with a highly efficient lead magnet Over-inundation of content; 83.6 million new posts are published every month Facebook ads allow you to get a lot reach, without spending a lot of money Research: Push traffic to good, not bad content; determine if ad is profitable; and interview readers regarding a problem that needs a solution Avoid creating a lot of content that doesn’t highlight your expertise about a topic Ads start at a loss; use bottom-up testing to make ads profitable Create an ideal audience for your content to make an ad that resonates with them Supply and Demand: More specific your ads, the more Facebook charges How people consume a newsfeed ad; on auto-pilot with their attention, interest Use Facebook machine learning to your advantage to obtain user data and create an algorithm to achieve conversion goals Branded Solution: Ad content should educate readers about specific systems and processes that reduce stress and solve relevant problems Getting people into a room, but not offering them anything; every piece of content should have a call to action Email is an effective channel to make sales Links: The Definitive Guide to Paid Content Promotion: Facebook Edition How to Create Killer Content That Gets Results In Any Industry AmpMyContent Freyja Spaven on Twitter Daniel Daines-Hutt on Twitter The 10X Marketing Formula by Garrett Moon Mad Men Machine Learning Facebook What topics and guests do you want on the Actionable Marketing Podcast? Send me your suggestions! If you liked today’s show, please subscribe on iTunes to The Actionable Content Marketing Podcast! The podcast is also available on SoundCloud, Stitcher, and Google Play. Quotes: â€Å"There are so many benefits to promoting content, rather than just writing new stuff all the time.† Daniel Daines-Hutt â€Å"It’s a very simple process. Like everything when it comes to marketing, it’s the subtleties.† Daniel Daines-Hutt â€Å"Marketing really is connecting someone from A to B, from their problem to the solution.† Daniel Daines-Hutt â€Å"One of the big mistakes that we see is people creating a great breadth of content and not really showing their expertise in their content by going deep into a subject.† Freyja Spaven

DODEA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

DODEA - Essay Example titutions are based on the fact that instructors chosen by the military exerts more effort in inculcating discipline not only within the school staff and personnel but also to their students and their respective families as well. This consist of regular and standardized monitoring which is made along with counseling and follow-ups to impart appropriate and acceptable principles and behavior regarding family and community aspects (Andrew 1-2). Relatively, children from DoDEA who are well disciplined also perform academically better than those of their counterparts in the local public schools since they are rigorously required to come up with the high standard of the school and excel in their marks (Randolph 1-2). Being an achiever is a by-product of DoDEA schools since students are encouraged to be their finest both in curricular and extra-curricular activities. Hence giving their best with the primary objective of having to excel (Brooklyn 1-4). It also goes true that DoDEA students or children have a wholesome sense of security which really sets them apart from the students enrolled in conventional public schools. The inspiration of keeping themselves and their environment secure stems from the way the administration or management handles them once they go out of line from the pre-set standards and regulations of the school. The procedure that is often employed by the said schools starts from interviewing the wayward student, then consulting with the parents/guardians to discuss concerns on behavior in order to determine whether further mental or health evaluation is necessary (Safe Schools Newsletter 2). In this regard, the counselors within DoDEA schools are cautioned to refrain from emotional responses that may excite or anger the emotionally disturbed student. Such appropriate handling works in a way that the child will learn how to respond and react calmly when faced with distressing situations; and will normally faci litate retention of normality

The Federal Aid to Highway Act of 1956 Case Study

The Federal Aid to Highway Act of 1956 - Case Study Example The Act was an amendment of the earlier Act of 1916. It proposed a hike in the gas tax by one to two cents. With the help of this Act, interstate highway system was expanded from 1,600 km to 66,000 km. The conference committee of House Senate included several features of Fallon and Gore bill into the Act. The main idea behind this Act was to reduce the ever-increasing pressure of interstate traffics in surface transportation. This regulation provided the provisions of uniformity in the interstate highway design standards (Code of Federal Regulations, 2009, pp. 23-25). The regulation law was enacted for the larger interests of the US people and defense services. According to the Law, on the interstate highway speed limit of the vehicles is 80.5kmph in the mountain terrain. In case of flat terrain speed limit is 112.7 km per hour. During his tenure as an army person President Dwight D. Eisenhower realized that interstate highways of USA should be improved for providing better transport ation services to the citizens and the defense forces of the country. Impacts of the Federal Aid to Highway Act of 1956 were obvious. In the last 40 years population percentage of America increased by 70% and employment rate increased by 100%. Primary requirement of the increased population is superior transportation. Over the years the interstate high way system has become the work horse for the nation. The above data is clearly indicating that the law has impacted the transportation system of the country in a positive fashion. According to the data, highway system takes care of almost one fourth of total roadway traffic. The Act has made the lives easier for the American people. The highway system carries almost one trillion person miles  per year. The Act was revolutionary and the importance of the Act is increasing day by day. In case of intercity and rural logistic facilities the system is undoubtedly the best. According to a survey, 45% of country’s large trucks

Existentialism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Existentialism - Essay Example Furthermore, the essence of incorporating the concepts of existentialism has adverse effects in life especially when there is less understanding of the mitigating beliefs of deaths. Moreover, it should be noted that the use of concepts helps in understanding the goals and aspirations of people and the state to attain happiness. There are several interesting issues pertaining to existentialism in the context of ethics and morality. Therefore, ethics in the view of existentialism includes the recommendation of concepts of wrong conduct and its succeeding concepts. On that account, there are different operational areas of ethics in the way that they apply in existentialism. This is in the form of the individual choices that people make especially in their conducts and rights in life. Morality on the other hand deals with the differentiation of actions, decisions and actions that determine whether something is either right or wrong. Similarly, it also reflects on the ethics of doing well in society that has varied choices in life (Earnshaw 177). Therefore, existentialism as noted by Jean Sartre on responsibility is based on the concepts such as the absurd, facticity and authenticity among others. This means that people are expected to live in accordance with the individual self without compromising on others rights and freedoms. Furthermore, there is also the aspect of the absurd that deals with deriving meaning from the structures of life especially in the maintenance of morality and ethics. There is also the perspective nihilism that explores the philosophical doctrines of life’s meanings and its objective meaning. On that account, there is existential nihilism that makes attempts at deducing meaning of life in terms of purpose, intrinsic value and meaning. Additionally, there is also the voice of moral nihilists who affirm the absence of morality in the realms of existence. They also insist that knowledge of what is wrong and right remains with the moral decisions of the individual especially on the given conditions of life. Therefore, according to Nietzsche, nihilism is the complete definition of emptying the world in order to find its meaning, essential value and comprehensible value (Earnshaw 174). By saying God is Dead; Nietzsche meant that there was over-reliance on religion to gain a moral understanding for the western world. On that account, in relation to absurdity as described by Camus, life is devoid of meaning and is defined by meaninglessness. Camus believes that life is characterized by absurdity that should not be defined by an over-reliance on God. However, there is also authenticity that pertains with discovering the self and living to those standards. This means people should avoid the acts of imitation in going about their duties on the grounds of finding a purpose in life. However, it differs from sincerity and honesty in the sense that there is no compatibility of goals in life. In other words, these two goals hi ghlight the case of finding for an authentic life that is closer to self-freedom. Freedom in this sense is defined in context of determining a uniqueness that is paramount in existing with others. Alternatively, it is not crucial to be a crowd-follower as espoused by Heidegger in the quest for a strong individuality. Instead, one should create his own path that is not controlled by the conventions of life such as normal morals and ethics (Earnshaw 173). Additionally, authenticity

Conflict and negotiation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Conflict and negotiation - Essay Example However, my colleague was hesitant to communicate this as he viewed it as lying and unethical. This form of conflict between me and my colleague can be categorised as an interpersonal conflict. As provided in the Thomas–Kilmann Conflict Model of conflict, conflict are based on two axes, mine and that of my colleague. The aspect of interpersonal conflict is brought forth by the fact that it is a variance between two individuals that does not necessarily involve any other individuals. The other two forms of conflict; intrapersonal and intergroup, do not apply. The gap between functional and dysfunctional conflict is very narrow and is more preceisely dictated by the deeds taken by each set of individuals. The classification of our conflict in this regard is extensively dependant on the position we will both take to reach a resolution. Evidently, we are both on the same side, but with different ideas on how to deal with the situation. My view is to assure the client of the fact that the order will be completed and delivered before the due date. This will make the client happy to have worked with us and wait for his order on the due date. However, my colleague believes it is appropriate to tell the truth which is that the order has still to be worked on because of the fact that there were many earlier orders yet to be completed. My view on this is that this will make the client anxious and averse our organization. My colleagues view is that my suggestions are contrary to the code of ethics. In this case, the conflict may be termed as functional where the two of us try to resolve the issue before getting back to the client. In a very distinct way, the conflict may be termed as dysfunctional where the client is reached with one’s point of view without the input of the other. Fischer (2012) illustrates the main causes of conflicts as; injustices, communication breakdown, lack of adequate resources, diversity, and incompatible goals.

Measuring the effectiveness of creative posters Literature review

Measuring the effectiveness of creative posters - Literature review Example According to Mogel (1993) advertising, ‘criers’ originated in Babylonia during 3000 BC. People would take come on to the street carrying their products and shouting louder about the merchandise. Later in 2200 BC, the development of hieroglyphics in Egypt gave way to paper and ink document used to interpret word and sound concept. Egypt further invented outdoor advertising carving public notices on stelae in 2000 BC (www.nonlineagency.com). If Egyptians were good at promoting Romans knew how to make a convincing sales pitch and early examples of advertising were found in the ruins of Pompeii. Advertising has been around for as long as there have been goods to sell and a medium to talk them up. The field of advertising took a giant step after the invention of printing press and movable type by Johannes Gutenberg, a German in 1447. In 1631, first classified newspaper ads were printed in France’s La Gazette by Renaudot which made him the first French journalist and th e inventor of personal ad (Tungate, 2007). Advertising further developed and flourished with the introduction of first English daily newspaper in 1702 and first newspaper advertising in the United States was carried out by Boston News-Letter in 1704. Advertising agencies began in early 1800 during the period when newspapers flourished (Mogel, 1993). Advertising, today, is a huge business making millions of dollars in profit and is not limited only to paper advertising but has expanded its horizon into radio, visual media and internet. This paper critically reviews various literatures in form of books, journals, articles, etc. on creative posters and to measure its effectiveness. Review of Literature Businesses rely on its marketing plan to promote their products which vary depending on their budget. No matter whatever the size of budget is, advertising is the key player in marketing plan because it makes the consumer aware of the product. Wells, Burnett and Moriarty (2007) mentioned that marketing is the way product is designed, tested, produced, branded, priced, distributed and promoted. Whereas advertising plans and decision making take place in the context of overall marketing strategy that includes statement of marketing objectives (Koekemoer and Bird, 2004). O’Guinn, Allen and Semenik (2008) mentioned that advertising is one of the primary tools available for marketing and is only one of the major areas of marketing responsibility. The marketing concepts suggest determining the customer needs and wants and then to develop, manufacture, market and service goods to fill those needs and wants (Wells, 2007). According to Saxena (2009) and Alozie (2009) advertising plays a significant role in awareness creation and attitude formation but has limited role in marketing strategy. Advertisement is the promotion of a company’s products and services through different mediums to increase the sales of the products and services. Advertising is further cla ssified into print, broadcast, outdoor, covert and public service (Management Study Guide, 2011). Out of home advertising further encompasses many advertising forms including outdoor (billboards and signs), transit (both inside and outside the vehicle), skywriting and variety of other media like public walls and furniture. According to OAAA (qtd. in Belch and Belch, 2003) total

Conflict and negotiation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Conflict and negotiation - Essay Example However, my colleague was hesitant to communicate this as he viewed it as lying and unethical. This form of conflict between me and my colleague can be categorised as an interpersonal conflict. As provided in the Thomas–Kilmann Conflict Model of conflict, conflict are based on two axes, mine and that of my colleague. The aspect of interpersonal conflict is brought forth by the fact that it is a variance between two individuals that does not necessarily involve any other individuals. The other two forms of conflict; intrapersonal and intergroup, do not apply. The gap between functional and dysfunctional conflict is very narrow and is more preceisely dictated by the deeds taken by each set of individuals. The classification of our conflict in this regard is extensively dependant on the position we will both take to reach a resolution. Evidently, we are both on the same side, but with different ideas on how to deal with the situation. My view is to assure the client of the fact that the order will be completed and delivered before the due date. This will make the client happy to have worked with us and wait for his order on the due date. However, my colleague believes it is appropriate to tell the truth which is that the order has still to be worked on because of the fact that there were many earlier orders yet to be completed. My view on this is that this will make the client anxious and averse our organization. My colleagues view is that my suggestions are contrary to the code of ethics. In this case, the conflict may be termed as functional where the two of us try to resolve the issue before getting back to the client. In a very distinct way, the conflict may be termed as dysfunctional where the client is reached with one’s point of view without the input of the other. Fischer (2012) illustrates the main causes of conflicts as; injustices, communication breakdown, lack of adequate resources, diversity, and incompatible goals.

Effect of Immigration on New York City Research Paper

Effect of Immigration on New York City - Research Paper Example Writing about New York City's population, Nathan Glazer noted, "If the United States remains the permanently unfinished country, to an even greater degree the same is true for New York City" (Vecoli, 567). Various reports show that immigration continues to shape the city. Immigrant flows are at an all time high since the peaks at the turn of the century. Immigration to the city in the 1990-2000 periods stood at approx 13,000 annually, a 32 percent increase over the average of 86,000 in the 1980s. (Lobo, 12) This growth mirrored the increasing flow of immigrants to the country as a whole; as a result, immigrants to the city constituted nearly 15 percent of all immigrants to the U.S. in both the 1980s and 2000s. (Martin, 02) This article examines the nature of these recent immigrant flows and their impact on the city's population. Traditionally, immigrants to the city have been disproportionately from the Caribbean and South America relative to the nation, which has been more likely to get immigrants from Asia and Mexico. The Caribbean comprised 33 percent of the flow of immigrants to the city, but only 12 percent of the flow to the nation in the 2005-2009 periods. ... Likewise, Asians were 26 percent of the city's flow but comprised 42 percent of entering immigrants to the nation. (Martin, 5) The 2000s marked resurgence in European immigration to New York City, and a decline in the share of Caribbean flows. Immigration from Europe stood at 22 percent, more than twice the level of 9 percent in the 1990s. (Vecoli, 562) Caribbean immigration, which stood at 40 percent of the total in the 1990s, dropped 7 points in the 2000s. However, the share of the Hispanic Caribbean (primarily the Dominican Republic) actually increased while there was a decline in flows from non-Hispanic Caribbean nations such as Jamaica, Haiti, and Barbados. Flows from Guyana, an English-speaking South American nation with a heavy Caribbean influence, also declined. The number of African immigrants to the city, while small, has been increasing steadily over the past three decades and comprised just over two percent of entering immigrants. The reason that immigrants are able to find jobs in the New York City and put a lot of people out of work is because they often take the low-paying jobs that most Americans don't want to do. Even though a lot of people may not like immigrants because they are putting them out of jobs, immigrants in this economy today are helping to keep inflation low, improve housing values, and benefit taxpayers (Martin, par. 12). In other words, immigration helps provide an increase to the U.S. economy. The only people that are really being hurt right now by immigrants are those people without high school degrees (Gelfand and Yee, par. 10). Every year they fight against immigrants for jobs and their wages just seem to keep getting lower. Immigrants who see their relatives and friends leading a better life

Schools of Thought Essay Example for Free

Schools of Thought Essay THERE WERE THREE MAJOR PHILOSOPHIES THAT EXISTED IN ANCIENT CHINESE TIMES; LEGALISM, DAOISM, AND CONFUCIANISM. EACH PHILOSOPHY HAD DIFFERENT WAYS OF THINKING/BELIEFS THAT INFLUENCED THEIR FOLLOWERS’ WAYS OF LIFE. ALTHOUGH THESE SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT MAY HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN ANCIENT CHINESE TIMES, WOULD THEY SUCCEED IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT IN TODAY’S SOCIETY? ONE SCHOOL OF THOUGHT THAT WOULD NOT FLOURISH IN TODAY’S WORLD IS LEGALISM, FOUNDED BY HAN FEIZI. LEGALIST IDEAS WERE BUILT AROUND THE BELIEF THAT ONLY STRICT LAWS ENFORCED BY A POWERFUL RULER WOULD ENSURE ORDER IN SOCIETY, AND THAT â€Å"THE  RULER ALONE POSSESSES POWER†. IT IS EVIDENT AS TO WHY THESE PRINCIPLES WOULD NOT WORK IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT BECAUSE A DEMOCRACY IS A GOVERNMENT BY THE PEOPLE FOR THE PEOPLE, AND NO SINGLE BEING HAS TOTAL CONTROL. HAN FEIZI ALSO BELIEVED THAT PEOPLE ACT OUT OF THEIR OWN SELF-INTEREST (ONE FOR ALL) AND NOT TO GOOD EXAMPLES (ALL FOR ONE). ALTHOUGH IN TODAY’S SOCIETY WE LIKE TO STICK TO THE MORALS THAT YOU PUT THE GROUP OVER THE INDIVIDUAL, MANY PEOPLE WILL STILL ACT OUT OF GREED AND PUT THEMSELVES FIRST. BUT OUR COUNTRY WOULD NEVER PROSPER IF EVERYONE ALWAYS ACTED OUT OF JUST PURELY SELF-INTEREST AND BE GREEDY ALL THE TIME. THE LEGALIST IDEOLOGIES CONCERNING SELF-INTEREST COMPLETELY CONTRADICTS THE CONFUCIANS’, WHICH IS THE ONE SCHOOL OF THOUGHT THAT COULD SUCCEED IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT IN TODAY’S SOCIETY. CONFUCIUS, THE FOUNDER OF THE CONFUCIAN SCHOOL OF THOUGHT, BASED MOST OF HIS IDEAS ON HOW TO REINSTATE PEACE AND â€Å"ENSURE HARMONY† IN A TIME FILLED WITH WAR AND FIGHTING. THE PRINCIPLES HE CONSTRUCTED IN ANCIENT CHINESE TIMES COULD ALSO SUCCEED IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT TODAY. CONFUCIUS HAD THE IDEA THAT A SUPERIOR PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE WELL BEING OF THE INFERIOR PERSON. THIS WOULD SUCCEED IN TODAY’S SOCIETY IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT’S JUST LIKE HAVING A PRESIDENT. THEY DON’T HAVE COMPLETE CONTROL OVER THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE, BUT GUARANTEES US WELFARE AS CITIZENS. CONFUCIUS ALSO HAD MANY THOUGHTS ON RELATIONSHIPS  AND MAINLY THAT THE SUPERIOR PERSON SUCH AS A FATHER SHOULD SET AN EXAMPLE FOR THE INFERIOR ONE SUCH AS A SON. THIS IDEA WOULD ALSO SUCCEED TODAY. OUR COUNTRY WILL ONLY BENEFIT IF PROPER ETIQUETTES AND WAYS WERE INTRODUCED TO OTHERS FOR THEM TO FOLLOW AS WELL. LASTLY, CONFUCIUS PLACED A HEAVY EMPHASIS ON LEARNING WHICH WOULD BE SUCCESSFUL IN ANY  SOCIETY DURING ANY TIME. THE LAST SCHOOL OF THOUGH IS DAOISM, AND IT WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S SOCIETY IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT. DAOISM IS SIMILAR TO CONFUCIANISM BECAUSE IT TOO SEARCHED FOR WAYS TO ENSURE PEACE IN SOCIETY, BUT THIS PHILOSOPHY TOOK A DIFFERENT ROUTE IN DOING SO. THE FOUNDER OF DAOISM, LAO ZI PUT MUCH EMPHASIS ON THE LINK BETWEEN PEOPLE AND NATURE, AND BELIEVED THE BEST WAY TO LIVE WAS THE NATURAL WAY. JUST BASED OFF THE BACKBONE PRINCIPLES OF THIS PHILOSOPHY, IT IS APPARENT THAT IT WOULD NOT BE SUCCESSFUL TODAY. IN OUR WORLD TODAY, EVERYTHING IS BASED ON USING OUR NEW TECHNOLOGIES TO THE FULLEST, AND USING THEM TO MODERNIZE OUR STANDARDS OF LIVING AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. ALTHOUGH DAOISTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR INVENTIONS SUCH AS THE MAGNETIC COMPASS ADVANCES IN  SCIENCE AND ASTRONOMY, THEY STILL USED THEM IN HARMONY WITH NATURE, WHICH IS THE EXACT OPPOSITE OF WHAT WE DO TODAY. OUR SOCIETY IS ALL ABOUT MAKING ADVANCES IN OUR TECHNOLOGIES, WITHOUT GIVING A THOUGH TO HOW MUCH IT IS HURTING OUR ENVIRONMENT BECAUSE WE PUT SUCH LITTLE EMPHASIS ON NATURE. THE MAIN REASON THAT DAOISM WOULD NOT BLEND WITH A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT IS BECAUSE DAOISM WAS ALSO A GROUNDED BY THE IDEA THAT GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE RUN BY FEW  LAWS AND LITTLE TO NO RULE. IF OUR GOVERNMENT WERE LIKE THAT, SO MANY CRIMES AND WRONG DOINGS WOULD TAKE PLACE THAT THE COUNTRY WOULD FALL APART IN A MATTER OF DAYS. OVERALL, THE THREE SCHOOLS OF THOUGHT ARE NOT BEST SUITED TO SUCCEED IN TODAY’S SOCIETY IN A DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT MAINLY DUE TO THE FACT THAT THEY THEIR PRINCIPLES WERE SHAPED IN ANCIENT CHINESE TIMES. THE ONLY REASON CONFUCIANISM IS THE ONLY SCHOOL OF THOUGH THAT COULD PROSPER TODAY IS BECAUSE IT IS THE ONLY ONE WHO’S IDEOLOGIES SOMEWHAT RESEMBLE SOME OF OUR MORALITIES AND GOVERNMENT POLICIES WE ABIDE BY TODAY.

Effect of Business and Management on SACCOs

Effect of Business and Management on SACCOs The background gives a brief history of the savings and credit cooperative societies, highlights its importance to the society and touches on the problems that have influenced its performance of its roles and finally on the possible solutions or causes of actions. This preambles the statement of the problem, the purpose, significance, scope and limitations of the study together with the research questions. 1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY One of the basic principles of Cooperative Savings and Credit Movement is the belief in co-operation and mutual self help for the uplifting of members standards of living. Kussco(2006). Members with a common bond join hands to form those quasi-banks institutions. With finances mobilized through such joint efforts the savings and credit society members build up the capital which they can use through local arrangements to finance their own social as well as economic development. The traditional form of cooperation involved working together on farms, hunting and gathering. All people have basic needs of food, shelter, security and belonging. People would invite neighbors to come and give a hand. Also people did not have money and resources, which enables individuals to employ people or machinery to do the work for them. In any community cooperation usually exists in the form of associations of people who come together as a group driven by their social and economic needs in order to cope with their problems and improve their conditions of living MOCD (2006) According to Odepo and Nyawinda (2004) , savings and credit cooperatives societies (commonly referred to as SACCOs), accept monthly payments for shares from which, members may borrow an amount equivalent to two or three times their own savings if they can get other members to guarantee them. They say that growth in SACCOs in the last twenty years has been spectacular. According to statistics from Kenya Union Of Savings and Credit Cooperative societies   (KUSCCO), the number of SACCOs rose from 630 in 1978 to 3,870 by the end of October 2002 while savings and share capital rose from Kshs. 375 million   in 1978 to Kshs. 80billion by 2003. Credit outreach similarly recorded significantly, having risen from 357 million in 1978 to kshs. 70 billion by 2003. Saccos active members numbered over 1.5 million by 2002 having risen from 378,500 members in 1978. Their rapid growth indicate that they have filled a need which had not been made by the financial institutions. Of the Kshs. 110 bill ion in the current share capital and deposits held by cooperatives, the statistics show that Kshs. 90 billion has been lent out to customers. However, the recent statistics from the ministry of cooperative development and marketing shows the position as below The internal management principles need to be enforced strongly to improve efficiency of collections, and even perhaps consider insuring the loans in case of demise of member loaned. The Sacco movement has the capacity to propel the economic lives of the citizens if indeed it is well managed. Its principles of democratic management, voluntary membership and common bond give it the base to take its members to new heights. The movement has been a boon for this country and many people would not be where they are now were it not for the harvests of the opportunities sowed in the garden of the movement. It mobilizes savings and finance and penetrates to areas not valued by other financial institutions, while serving special needs of members. The prospects for the industry are so huge. By identifying the fact that the easiest source of funding is the locally mobilized savings, the saccos should come up with innovative ideas to encourage the members of the common bond to save, as a first step. Other sources of funds like the cooperative bank, which all the saccos have a stake in, should be considered exhaustively. Besides they should think outside the box and get organi zations willing to empower members economically by allowing loans at a rate less than what saccos offer to its members. The saccos umbrella body- Kussco- has a fund to assist the member saccos when they are in need of the funds   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ( www.kusco.com) Saccos face numerous challenges that hinder the exploitation of their full potential. Mudibo(2005) raised concerns on the calibre of leaders who run saccos noting that since these are voluntary organizations, members can elect anybody they like, who may not necessarily have the skills to run a sacco. He suggested that before a member is elected, he should have certain number of shares so that he has something to loose if he mismanages the sacco. Non remittance and delayed remittance of cooperative dues by employers has led to inconveniences and loss of income by the societies. New rules have however provided stiff penalties for errant employers. Members are also at risk due to HIV/AIDS and ways to attract new members are required. Ngumo (2005), in his article the cooperative movement in Kenya; the eagle that wont fly Nairobi, Kenya institute of management raises several unsettled issues affecting the saccos. First the government should decide on whether to control or facilitate the cooperatives. Cooperative roles should be re-emphasized. One member one vote should be questioned. Instead he suggests the policy of one share one vote. Still, ownership and control should be de-linked for good corporate governance. Then business strategies need further scrutiny before implementation. He concludes that it will be sad for Kenyans to compose a eulogy for the movement after all this time. He said; We cannot milk a cow, refuse to feed it, cry that it was wonderful cow and blame God for its demise. According to National Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) Baseline Survey (1999/2000), Kenya has a relatively well developed banking and formal financial sector. This consists of the Central Bank, 43 commercial banks, 16 non-bank financial institutions, 2 mortgage finance companies, 4 building societies , 8 developed financial institutions about 3870 cooperative savings and credit societies, 38 insurance companies, the Nairobi stock exchange and venture capital companies. The survey further indicates that nearly 89.6% of MSEs had never received credit and other financial services. Table 1.2 Sources of credit   to MSEs in Kenya 2000 Source: National MSE Baseline survey 1999/2000 (CBS, K-rep and ICEG) The unserved credit needs portrayed by the statistics in the table 1.2 in the background section above signifies a wealth of opportunities untapped by all the financial institutions. The proof of the existence of market implies that a lot needs to be done to raise what it takes to serve a market. The most basic need is the finance to lend in a discipline way. Voluntary savings from members is therefore imperative. Saccos abilities to improve their members wealth is determined by a number of factors, among them is the funding levels due to members marginal propensity to save, contributions; remittance by the employers, legal and regulatory framework, internal management principles and practices (e.g customer service, marketing, dividend / interest payment etc) amongst other factors. These factors level of influence on saccos ability to perform captured the attention of the researcher. It was the intention of the researcher to examine them and possibly recommend on the best way to miti gate the underlying challenges and take advantage of the available opportunities by exploiting existing strengths. Voluntary deposits / savings as a source of commercial finance for micro credit institution have generated a lot of interest and debate in recent years. Locally mobilized voluntary savings is potentially the largest and the most immediately available source of finance for some micro credit institutions, most of all the saccos. Bearing this in mind, one is left to wonder what is hindering the saccos from prosperity, given the access to its resources and the wealth of its opportunities. The purpose of this research is to broaden the discussion of what, when, why and how a sacco should use its resources, get the right framework, apply effective policies for improvement of the wealth of its members. Getting these elements right is a crucial part of meeting the demand for the unmet credit needs. The researcher will also seek to bridge the gap that exist between Saccos that have exemplary performance in their services to members and excellent returns and some others which barely afford to offer loans, leave alone dividends. According to Armstrong, performance is often defined in output terms the achievement of quantified objectives. But performance is a matter not only of what people achieve but how they achieve it. High performance result from appropriate behaviour, especially discretionary behaviour, and the effective use of the required knowledge, skills and competencies. 1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM Quite a number of Saccos e.g TENA sacco, have a long string of pending loan applications from members SACCO star ( 2006) . Some saccos pay out little or no dividends/ interests on members savings. Some others still have a low loan multiplier and / or limited concurrent loans compared to some well performing counterparts e.g Stima Sacco, Sacco star,(2006)- which has even started ATM services for FOSA customers and manages to advance more that three times the members deposits, can give up to four concurrent loans without closing any applications for the year and gives loans almost immediately it is applied for by the member , (mwaura (2004). Among the major problems hindering this is the unavailability of much needed cash to lend, when it is required. This therefore causes a mismatch in the availability of funds and the demand for loans. Other reasons could be poor investment decisions or lack of investment opportunities or delayed cash flow from employers/ members among others. Rutherford (1999) wrote that funding these large sums of money is the main management problem. The only reliable and sustainable way is to build them from savings. Saving- making a choice not to consume- is thus the fundamental and unavoidable first step in money management, without which financial services cannot operate. The poor themselves recognize the need to build savings into lump sums and contrary to the popular belief, the poor want to save and try to save, and all poor people except those who are entirely outside the cash economy can save something, no matter how small, When poor people do not save, it is for luck of opportunity rather for lack of understanding or of will. Most of the saccos have succeeded in mobilization of savings from members. Inspite of this, still they have a huge backlog in terms of loans advanced to members (Sacco star, 2005). Furthermore, most of the saccos pay little dividends/interests on deposits or none at all, in-spite of trading with the deposits/savings. It was therefore the intention of the researcher to seek to establish the determinants of saccos capabilities to improve its members well being. 1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY Main Objective The main purpose of this study was to investigate and refine our understanding of the major factors that determine the performance of saccos to enable them maximize their members wealth. Specific objective Specifically, the study sought: To find out the extend to which the nature of business/ check off system affects performance of SACCOs To establish the relationship between management practices and performance of SACCOs To examine the level of education and training of general members, committee members staff and their effects on performance of SACCOs To determine if long term investment affects performance of SACCOs 1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS To what extent does the nature of business/ check off system affect performance of SACCOs? Do management practices affect performance of SACCOs? Is education and training of general members, committee members staff a factor that affects the performance of SACCOs? Does long term investment affect the performance of SACCOs? 1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY This study is aimed at developing an understanding on major factors determining the accessibility to funds to process and dispense all loan requisitions in time by saccos in Kenya. It is seeking to examine and underscore the salient principles that have a bearing in the success in similar or related areas of focus, and hence suggest ways and means of overcoming failure. The study is aimed at benefiting, among others, the management teams. These are the people entrusted by the members to take care of their interests in saccos. They will study to understand and improve on policy setting and implementation for overall sustainability of the sector. The entire sacco membership will also get enlightened. The members of the common bond will appreciate their role in sustaining their welfare through sacco as a vehicle. They will be more willing to take a center role instead of quiting when they feel their interests are not being taken care of by the people they entrusted them with. It will also benefit the sacco staff/secretariate; these are the people who get their daily bread from the sacco. They will understand their role in the growth of the organization, hence acting to secure their source of livelihood. It will also be of good use to the government department in charge of cooperatives. The report will bring to light issues requiring framework and only them can attend to for the overall sustainability of the sacco industry. Finally other researchers in this area will find this useful. They will get recommendations for further research from this study. The beneficiaries will have access to the information on the findings from the compiled report. The final report will be available in selected major libraries, organized groups, especially the respondents will get a copy of the report on the findings. 1.7 SCOPE OF THE STUDY This studys scope was the saccos based in Eldoret. The researcher selected a suitable sample from the population by purposive convenience sampling. According to the statistics from MOCD/M, there are about 10 such saccos within Eldoret town. About 40 % of the population (4 saccos) were covered by the study. The study targeted the members of the central management committee (CMC) in the selected SACCOs. CHAPTER TWO 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction to literature review This section contains literature that has been reviewed and continues to be reviewed relating to the problem. Literature review involves locating, reading and evaluating reports of previous studies, observations and opinions relating to the planned study. It therefore enables the researcher to know what has been done in the particular field of study, makes one aware of what has been made and what challenges remain, and gives suggestions on the variables and procedures that could be used. Literature review logically leads to objectives on the study. 2.2 Past studies in the area 2.2.1 Background information According to Mwaura (2005) sessional paper No. 4 of 1987 on renewed growth through the cooperative movement highlighted the significance of the movement in national development. By this time there were 3500 registered cooperatives with more than 2million members and an annual turnover greater than 6billion. The paper noted that one in every two Kenyans derived its livelihood from the cooperative either directly or indirectly. The cooperative movement in Kenya is reputed to be the most advanced in the African continent. The Kenya Nordic agreement of 1967led to the establishment of the Cooperative college of Kenya at Langata, which is the main training ground for both ministry staff and the movement employees. According to MOCD (2002) the first Savings and credit Cooperatives in Kenya were started in the sixties. The Government annual economic survey shows that as at December 2002 there were more than 2,400 active SACCOS with membership in excess of 1.5 million people. Share capital stood at Kshs. 65 billion while outstanding loans were Kshs. 59 billion.. The structure of the cooperative movement in Kenya comprises of four tiers. These include the primary societies, secondary cooperatives, tertiary cooperatives and nationwide cooperatives. The Kenya Federal of Cooperatives (KNFC) is the only apex society in the movement. It was formed with an objective of promoting, developing, guiding, assisting and upholding ideas of the cooperative principles. KNFC is the link between cooperatives in Kenya and the international cooperative alliance. Of special mention here is the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA), which is registered under the Societies Act, Chapter 108 of the laws of Kenya. Its area of operation is Africa and the adjacent islands. Its head-quarters is in Nairobi. It has twenty five affiliated organizations. It is affiliated to the International Cooperative Alliance through its members in the world council of Credit Unions (WOCCU). According to the cooperative Societies Act (Cap 490), persons desirous of forming a cooperative society must fill the prescribed form from the commissioner for cooperatives. It requires that at least ten members will sign the form, though for savings and credit the commissioner has been asked for more people. The form requires that the society makes its by-laws. For ease of convenience the commissioner has prepared model by-laws for the cooperative societies. The societies are nevertheless free to change these or come up with their own by-laws. The by-laws must detail the following; the name of the society, objects of the society, purposes to which its funds may be applied, disposal of surplus funds, qualifications for membership and terms and conditions of admission of members. For savings and credit cooperatives, the following are also includes, the rate of interest, the maximum amount loan-able, extension, renewal and recovery of loans and the consequences of default in the repayment of any sums due. On receipt of the application form the office of the commissioner will register the cooperative society on the advice of the cooperative officer in charge of the area of operation. Chapter 490 provides that no companies registered under the companys Act or any un-incorporated body of persons shall become a member of a registered society except with the written permission of the commissioner. It also provides that no person can join more than one cooperative society with unlimited liability. A member may nevertheless be allowed to join two or more cooperatives with limited liability if the two are in different areas of operation. A cooperative society just like a company, may be registered with or without limited liability. The commissioner has power to refuse to register a cooperative society. Nevertheless, the refusal must be given to the applicants in writing. Applicants can appeal to the minister for cooperative developments and finally to the high court. The commissioner may register the cooperative either provisionally or fully. A provision registration is given where some requirements for registration have not been met. The applicants are given a period o f one year to satisfy all conditions. A provisionally registered cooperative society may act as a fully registered in all ways. Upon registration such a cooperative society is deemed to have been registered on the date of the provisional registration. Upon registration a society becomes a body of corporate. According to Ouma(1980), the term cooperative in its widest sense simply means working together. In this context cooperation is as old as mankind and exists wherever the human family is found. Indeed such cooperation exists among animals, insects, bees and ants. Thus cooperation generally means working together for a common purpose. Thus group effort through traditional form of cooperation may be traced in all communities of the world. However its narrow sense as a movement, it means an association of people whose purpose for group work yields good results not only for the members but to the community in general and even to the humanity at large. Cooperative is a business organization by profit, but rather the result of mutual association whose objective is equitable economic betterment of man and the society in which he lives. According to the MOCD, cooperatives are regulated by a set of principals. These principles were formulated by a group of people who lived in a village in England known as Rochdale, and they are therefore referred to as Rochdale pioneers. They formed the first successful cooperative society   in 1884. This society which was a consumer cooperative society was formed in 1844 when Britain was undergoing industrial revolution. As a result of the revolution, a lot of people lost their jobs in the factories as machines were introduced to replace them. In addition to this there was general lack of credit and supply of essential commodities like salt, sugar, flour and cooking fat. Businessmen also took advantage of this situation and started offering impure products at high prices. It is against this background that Rochdale Pioneers decided to draw up some sort of principles which would guide their operation as cooperative society.   These principles were intended for the regulation of cooperative society as indicated by the great stress on the sale of pure products and the sale of goods for cash only. It was therefore found necessary to formulate the principles for adoption by other types of cooperatives. The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Commission of 1966 adopted the following principles which are genuine for the running of a genuine cooperative society:- Open and voluntary membership, democratic administration (one man, one vote), limited interest on share capital, payments of dividends and bonuses to members, promotion of education and cooperation with other cooperatives at local national and international levels. According to Ouma (1980), the traditional cooperatives have been in existence in Kenya, as it has been elsewhere, from time immemorial. Examples of such cooperative practices are to be found in Kenya. The group association is normally based on lineage according to the natural geographic environment in which the members of the group are born. This is usually based on clan or people who live within the same village. It can be stated with fair amount of certainty that the   traditional forms of cooperation do generally speaking, form the basis for the establishment of modern cooperative organizations. There is for instance in Luo, Saga whereby a group of people do ploughing, weeding or harvest for each member of the group in turn. In Kwath, members of the group look after their cattle together for three or more days consecutively, in turn. In Kikuyu there is what is called ngwatio (Mwethya in Kamba) whereby members of the group get together to build houses for themselves, each member of the group breinging what is required for the construction e.g. grass and poles. When the first house is completed then the members start on the next one. In Kisii, there is what is called obituary wherby men go on a job hunting exercise, and when they kill an animal, they will either divide it or take it home (village) where it mis cooked and eaten communally by all the villagers. Among the Kalenjin there is the practice of Kokwet wherby a group of people   would go out to harvest or weed the garden of their members in turn. The Kalenjin also have Loget whereby the men   go in a joint   effort to kill animals for food. According to Ouma(1980), practically all the ethnic groups in this country, whether small or big, has since time immemorial practiced mutual association in order to satisfy their needs socially, economically or otherwise. It is also necessary to point out that in the traditional forms of cooperatives, in contrast to the modern cooperatives, members had a great sense of commitment and belonging.. They had mutual trust and   were voluntarily involved in their activities and affairs.. It is of course not possible and it may not be expected that with the development of cosmopolitan populations consisting of different ethnic groups and tribes that members can still hold   together without some form of regulations. Hence the necessity to resort to legal reinforcement and education in order to develop efficient cooperative organizations. Although these associations of group effort could be deemed self help which is infect a for of cooperative , it is nevertheless true to say that the modern cooperative movement, born in Kenya during the beginning of twentieth century owed much of the cooperative idea to these earlier practices. It is also true that the modern cooperative associations in this country took a different approach and   mainly because of expediency. Its founders the British settlers- merely wanted to use it as a cheap means of business for easy profit making. They never spontaneously involved the indigenous people who already were familiar with cooperative effort. The early settlers were beset by very many problems as regards their agricultural activities. For instance prices for Agricultural products were very low, transport of the agricultural inputs and outputs to the markets by each individual settler were classical nightmares. Therefore this new system of farming with its large scale production caused the needs for associations by the few European farmers who undoubtedly had conceived the cooperative idea from the British cooperative movement back home. It will of course be recalled that the formal and successful cooperative organisations started in Britain in 1844. In 1908, they resolved to join together at a place called Lumbwa and formed Lumbwa cooperative Society Ltd. Although not registered as such under any cooperative Societies Act, it is deemed to be one of the modern cooperatives in Kenya. The main objective was to purchase merchandise; i.e. fertilizers, chemical seeds, and other agricultural inputs through collective effort, and to market their produce collectively thus taking advantage of the economy of scale. It would appear quite clear at this point that cooperatives in Kenya did not start as a poor mans defensive weapon against the exploitation by the middlemen, as it had started in Europe and elsewhere. It was on the contrary an easier means to enable the white settlers to receive high returns from their agricultural produce. Thus it was rather an economic necessity for the well to do and not the ordinary man with little or no means at all. It will be remembered that during this time, there was no cooperative societies ordinance to regulate and to assist the management of these cooperative efforts in Kenya. It is also not clear whether or   not Lumbwa Cooperative society ltd was registered even under the companies Act, otherwise calling it a co-operative society was misleading. However one thing remains certain, and that is that the settlers wanted to maximize their profits by trading under the pretext of a co-operative organisation, thereby enjoying its privileges. According to Ouma (1980) many self help groups, most of which were very small and un-economic, were started all over the country. But these were not economically viable and consequently had to be amalgamated into larger economic units. These were for instance Kenya farmers association (co-operatives), Kenya planters co-operative union, Kenya cooperative creameries and Horticultural cooperative union. It is a fact that these institutions formed the backbone and the base for formal cooperative movement in this country. These initial cooperative ventures in Kenya were unfortunately not quite in the spirit of the Rochdale Pioneer Cooperative Society. They never for example, observed the principle of membership, for no African could participate in it until later. The need to form formal cooperative organisations arose when some African peasant farmers realized that they were being exploited, especially by the Asian traders who were paying very low prices for their agricultural produce. As early as in the 1930s there were attempts to form cooperatives by the indigenous people of Kenya, in spite of lack of proper guidance. Of these early attempts two examples can be mentioned here, The Taita vegetable company and the Kisii coffee Growers cooperative. The farmers had 239 members and bought 3 lorries at the cost of $1170 out of the profits made from the operations. The group was producing, grading, transporting and selling on the mombasa market over 900,000Lbs of vegetables a year and the growers received over $4,500 out of a gross selling price of $ 6300. This was indeed too substantial an enterprise to be left without a legal basis. It was later registered as cooperative society. The Kisii coffee growers Association which was able to raise from the sale of its coffee a sum of $2470 of which   $1240 was paid out to the 251 members who had cultivated only 159 acres, but had already accumulated a surplus of $1065. In 1994, the British Colonial Office in London appointed Mr. W.K.H Campbell to come to investigate the possibilities of African participation in the cooperative organisations. He carried out his investigations by touring and visiting many towns and districts in the republic of Kenya and talking to the people. After all his investigations Mr. Campbell submitted his recommendations that subject to availability of capable staff attempts to organise cooperatives were worth while. It was also during this time that the first African Mr. Eliud Mathu was nominated to the legislative assembly, as the Kenya parliament was called then. He demanded in parliament and such people as Ex chief Koinange from outside, that the Government should come out openly to encourage African participation in the cooperative movement. It was as a result of Campbells recommendation that the cooperative societies (Registration) Amendment, Ordinance of 1932 was repealed and the cooperative societies Ordinance of 1945 was enacted under Cap. 287. It was as a result of this new ordinance that the department of cooperatives was created, although it was placed under different ministries at various times. Consequent to the establishment of the department, a registrar ( now called commissioner for cooperative Development) was appointed and together with his staff was responsible for registration and promotion of cooperative societies in the country. The 1945 cooperative societies ordinance further gave the registrar certain powers over cooperative societies, for example refusal to register a cooperative society, cancellation of certificate of registration, to audit societys books of accounts, authority to inspect books of society, authority to settle disputes in cooperat Effect of Business and Management on SACCOs Effect of Business and Management on SACCOs The background gives a brief history of the savings and credit cooperative societies, highlights its importance to the society and touches on the problems that have influenced its performance of its roles and finally on the possible solutions or causes of actions. This preambles the statement of the problem, the purpose, significance, scope and limitations of the study together with the research questions. 1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY One of the basic principles of Cooperative Savings and Credit Movement is the belief in co-operation and mutual self help for the uplifting of members standards of living. Kussco(2006). Members with a common bond join hands to form those quasi-banks institutions. With finances mobilized through such joint efforts the savings and credit society members build up the capital which they can use through local arrangements to finance their own social as well as economic development. The traditional form of cooperation involved working together on farms, hunting and gathering. All people have basic needs of food, shelter, security and belonging. People would invite neighbors to come and give a hand. Also people did not have money and resources, which enables individuals to employ people or machinery to do the work for them. In any community cooperation usually exists in the form of associations of people who come together as a group driven by their social and economic needs in order to cope with their problems and improve their conditions of living MOCD (2006) According to Odepo and Nyawinda (2004) , savings and credit cooperatives societies (commonly referred to as SACCOs), accept monthly payments for shares from which, members may borrow an amount equivalent to two or three times their own savings if they can get other members to guarantee them. They say that growth in SACCOs in the last twenty years has been spectacular. According to statistics from Kenya Union Of Savings and Credit Cooperative societies   (KUSCCO), the number of SACCOs rose from 630 in 1978 to 3,870 by the end of October 2002 while savings and share capital rose from Kshs. 375 million   in 1978 to Kshs. 80billion by 2003. Credit outreach similarly recorded significantly, having risen from 357 million in 1978 to kshs. 70 billion by 2003. Saccos active members numbered over 1.5 million by 2002 having risen from 378,500 members in 1978. Their rapid growth indicate that they have filled a need which had not been made by the financial institutions. Of the Kshs. 110 bill ion in the current share capital and deposits held by cooperatives, the statistics show that Kshs. 90 billion has been lent out to customers. However, the recent statistics from the ministry of cooperative development and marketing shows the position as below The internal management principles need to be enforced strongly to improve efficiency of collections, and even perhaps consider insuring the loans in case of demise of member loaned. The Sacco movement has the capacity to propel the economic lives of the citizens if indeed it is well managed. Its principles of democratic management, voluntary membership and common bond give it the base to take its members to new heights. The movement has been a boon for this country and many people would not be where they are now were it not for the harvests of the opportunities sowed in the garden of the movement. It mobilizes savings and finance and penetrates to areas not valued by other financial institutions, while serving special needs of members. The prospects for the industry are so huge. By identifying the fact that the easiest source of funding is the locally mobilized savings, the saccos should come up with innovative ideas to encourage the members of the common bond to save, as a first step. Other sources of funds like the cooperative bank, which all the saccos have a stake in, should be considered exhaustively. Besides they should think outside the box and get organi zations willing to empower members economically by allowing loans at a rate less than what saccos offer to its members. The saccos umbrella body- Kussco- has a fund to assist the member saccos when they are in need of the funds   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   ( www.kusco.com) Saccos face numerous challenges that hinder the exploitation of their full potential. Mudibo(2005) raised concerns on the calibre of leaders who run saccos noting that since these are voluntary organizations, members can elect anybody they like, who may not necessarily have the skills to run a sacco. He suggested that before a member is elected, he should have certain number of shares so that he has something to loose if he mismanages the sacco. Non remittance and delayed remittance of cooperative dues by employers has led to inconveniences and loss of income by the societies. New rules have however provided stiff penalties for errant employers. Members are also at risk due to HIV/AIDS and ways to attract new members are required. Ngumo (2005), in his article the cooperative movement in Kenya; the eagle that wont fly Nairobi, Kenya institute of management raises several unsettled issues affecting the saccos. First the government should decide on whether to control or facilitate the cooperatives. Cooperative roles should be re-emphasized. One member one vote should be questioned. Instead he suggests the policy of one share one vote. Still, ownership and control should be de-linked for good corporate governance. Then business strategies need further scrutiny before implementation. He concludes that it will be sad for Kenyans to compose a eulogy for the movement after all this time. He said; We cannot milk a cow, refuse to feed it, cry that it was wonderful cow and blame God for its demise. According to National Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) Baseline Survey (1999/2000), Kenya has a relatively well developed banking and formal financial sector. This consists of the Central Bank, 43 commercial banks, 16 non-bank financial institutions, 2 mortgage finance companies, 4 building societies , 8 developed financial institutions about 3870 cooperative savings and credit societies, 38 insurance companies, the Nairobi stock exchange and venture capital companies. The survey further indicates that nearly 89.6% of MSEs had never received credit and other financial services. Table 1.2 Sources of credit   to MSEs in Kenya 2000 Source: National MSE Baseline survey 1999/2000 (CBS, K-rep and ICEG) The unserved credit needs portrayed by the statistics in the table 1.2 in the background section above signifies a wealth of opportunities untapped by all the financial institutions. The proof of the existence of market implies that a lot needs to be done to raise what it takes to serve a market. The most basic need is the finance to lend in a discipline way. Voluntary savings from members is therefore imperative. Saccos abilities to improve their members wealth is determined by a number of factors, among them is the funding levels due to members marginal propensity to save, contributions; remittance by the employers, legal and regulatory framework, internal management principles and practices (e.g customer service, marketing, dividend / interest payment etc) amongst other factors. These factors level of influence on saccos ability to perform captured the attention of the researcher. It was the intention of the researcher to examine them and possibly recommend on the best way to miti gate the underlying challenges and take advantage of the available opportunities by exploiting existing strengths. Voluntary deposits / savings as a source of commercial finance for micro credit institution have generated a lot of interest and debate in recent years. Locally mobilized voluntary savings is potentially the largest and the most immediately available source of finance for some micro credit institutions, most of all the saccos. Bearing this in mind, one is left to wonder what is hindering the saccos from prosperity, given the access to its resources and the wealth of its opportunities. The purpose of this research is to broaden the discussion of what, when, why and how a sacco should use its resources, get the right framework, apply effective policies for improvement of the wealth of its members. Getting these elements right is a crucial part of meeting the demand for the unmet credit needs. The researcher will also seek to bridge the gap that exist between Saccos that have exemplary performance in their services to members and excellent returns and some others which barely afford to offer loans, leave alone dividends. According to Armstrong, performance is often defined in output terms the achievement of quantified objectives. But performance is a matter not only of what people achieve but how they achieve it. High performance result from appropriate behaviour, especially discretionary behaviour, and the effective use of the required knowledge, skills and competencies. 1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM Quite a number of Saccos e.g TENA sacco, have a long string of pending loan applications from members SACCO star ( 2006) . Some saccos pay out little or no dividends/ interests on members savings. Some others still have a low loan multiplier and / or limited concurrent loans compared to some well performing counterparts e.g Stima Sacco, Sacco star,(2006)- which has even started ATM services for FOSA customers and manages to advance more that three times the members deposits, can give up to four concurrent loans without closing any applications for the year and gives loans almost immediately it is applied for by the member , (mwaura (2004). Among the major problems hindering this is the unavailability of much needed cash to lend, when it is required. This therefore causes a mismatch in the availability of funds and the demand for loans. Other reasons could be poor investment decisions or lack of investment opportunities or delayed cash flow from employers/ members among others. Rutherford (1999) wrote that funding these large sums of money is the main management problem. The only reliable and sustainable way is to build them from savings. Saving- making a choice not to consume- is thus the fundamental and unavoidable first step in money management, without which financial services cannot operate. The poor themselves recognize the need to build savings into lump sums and contrary to the popular belief, the poor want to save and try to save, and all poor people except those who are entirely outside the cash economy can save something, no matter how small, When poor people do not save, it is for luck of opportunity rather for lack of understanding or of will. Most of the saccos have succeeded in mobilization of savings from members. Inspite of this, still they have a huge backlog in terms of loans advanced to members (Sacco star, 2005). Furthermore, most of the saccos pay little dividends/interests on deposits or none at all, in-spite of trading with the deposits/savings. It was therefore the intention of the researcher to seek to establish the determinants of saccos capabilities to improve its members well being. 1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY Main Objective The main purpose of this study was to investigate and refine our understanding of the major factors that determine the performance of saccos to enable them maximize their members wealth. Specific objective Specifically, the study sought: To find out the extend to which the nature of business/ check off system affects performance of SACCOs To establish the relationship between management practices and performance of SACCOs To examine the level of education and training of general members, committee members staff and their effects on performance of SACCOs To determine if long term investment affects performance of SACCOs 1.5 RESEARCH QUESTIONS To what extent does the nature of business/ check off system affect performance of SACCOs? Do management practices affect performance of SACCOs? Is education and training of general members, committee members staff a factor that affects the performance of SACCOs? Does long term investment affect the performance of SACCOs? 1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY This study is aimed at developing an understanding on major factors determining the accessibility to funds to process and dispense all loan requisitions in time by saccos in Kenya. It is seeking to examine and underscore the salient principles that have a bearing in the success in similar or related areas of focus, and hence suggest ways and means of overcoming failure. The study is aimed at benefiting, among others, the management teams. These are the people entrusted by the members to take care of their interests in saccos. They will study to understand and improve on policy setting and implementation for overall sustainability of the sector. The entire sacco membership will also get enlightened. The members of the common bond will appreciate their role in sustaining their welfare through sacco as a vehicle. They will be more willing to take a center role instead of quiting when they feel their interests are not being taken care of by the people they entrusted them with. It will also benefit the sacco staff/secretariate; these are the people who get their daily bread from the sacco. They will understand their role in the growth of the organization, hence acting to secure their source of livelihood. It will also be of good use to the government department in charge of cooperatives. The report will bring to light issues requiring framework and only them can attend to for the overall sustainability of the sacco industry. Finally other researchers in this area will find this useful. They will get recommendations for further research from this study. The beneficiaries will have access to the information on the findings from the compiled report. The final report will be available in selected major libraries, organized groups, especially the respondents will get a copy of the report on the findings. 1.7 SCOPE OF THE STUDY This studys scope was the saccos based in Eldoret. The researcher selected a suitable sample from the population by purposive convenience sampling. According to the statistics from MOCD/M, there are about 10 such saccos within Eldoret town. About 40 % of the population (4 saccos) were covered by the study. The study targeted the members of the central management committee (CMC) in the selected SACCOs. CHAPTER TWO 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction to literature review This section contains literature that has been reviewed and continues to be reviewed relating to the problem. Literature review involves locating, reading and evaluating reports of previous studies, observations and opinions relating to the planned study. It therefore enables the researcher to know what has been done in the particular field of study, makes one aware of what has been made and what challenges remain, and gives suggestions on the variables and procedures that could be used. Literature review logically leads to objectives on the study. 2.2 Past studies in the area 2.2.1 Background information According to Mwaura (2005) sessional paper No. 4 of 1987 on renewed growth through the cooperative movement highlighted the significance of the movement in national development. By this time there were 3500 registered cooperatives with more than 2million members and an annual turnover greater than 6billion. The paper noted that one in every two Kenyans derived its livelihood from the cooperative either directly or indirectly. The cooperative movement in Kenya is reputed to be the most advanced in the African continent. The Kenya Nordic agreement of 1967led to the establishment of the Cooperative college of Kenya at Langata, which is the main training ground for both ministry staff and the movement employees. According to MOCD (2002) the first Savings and credit Cooperatives in Kenya were started in the sixties. The Government annual economic survey shows that as at December 2002 there were more than 2,400 active SACCOS with membership in excess of 1.5 million people. Share capital stood at Kshs. 65 billion while outstanding loans were Kshs. 59 billion.. The structure of the cooperative movement in Kenya comprises of four tiers. These include the primary societies, secondary cooperatives, tertiary cooperatives and nationwide cooperatives. The Kenya Federal of Cooperatives (KNFC) is the only apex society in the movement. It was formed with an objective of promoting, developing, guiding, assisting and upholding ideas of the cooperative principles. KNFC is the link between cooperatives in Kenya and the international cooperative alliance. Of special mention here is the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA), which is registered under the Societies Act, Chapter 108 of the laws of Kenya. Its area of operation is Africa and the adjacent islands. Its head-quarters is in Nairobi. It has twenty five affiliated organizations. It is affiliated to the International Cooperative Alliance through its members in the world council of Credit Unions (WOCCU). According to the cooperative Societies Act (Cap 490), persons desirous of forming a cooperative society must fill the prescribed form from the commissioner for cooperatives. It requires that at least ten members will sign the form, though for savings and credit the commissioner has been asked for more people. The form requires that the society makes its by-laws. For ease of convenience the commissioner has prepared model by-laws for the cooperative societies. The societies are nevertheless free to change these or come up with their own by-laws. The by-laws must detail the following; the name of the society, objects of the society, purposes to which its funds may be applied, disposal of surplus funds, qualifications for membership and terms and conditions of admission of members. For savings and credit cooperatives, the following are also includes, the rate of interest, the maximum amount loan-able, extension, renewal and recovery of loans and the consequences of default in the repayment of any sums due. On receipt of the application form the office of the commissioner will register the cooperative society on the advice of the cooperative officer in charge of the area of operation. Chapter 490 provides that no companies registered under the companys Act or any un-incorporated body of persons shall become a member of a registered society except with the written permission of the commissioner. It also provides that no person can join more than one cooperative society with unlimited liability. A member may nevertheless be allowed to join two or more cooperatives with limited liability if the two are in different areas of operation. A cooperative society just like a company, may be registered with or without limited liability. The commissioner has power to refuse to register a cooperative society. Nevertheless, the refusal must be given to the applicants in writing. Applicants can appeal to the minister for cooperative developments and finally to the high court. The commissioner may register the cooperative either provisionally or fully. A provision registration is given where some requirements for registration have not been met. The applicants are given a period o f one year to satisfy all conditions. A provisionally registered cooperative society may act as a fully registered in all ways. Upon registration such a cooperative society is deemed to have been registered on the date of the provisional registration. Upon registration a society becomes a body of corporate. According to Ouma(1980), the term cooperative in its widest sense simply means working together. In this context cooperation is as old as mankind and exists wherever the human family is found. Indeed such cooperation exists among animals, insects, bees and ants. Thus cooperation generally means working together for a common purpose. Thus group effort through traditional form of cooperation may be traced in all communities of the world. However its narrow sense as a movement, it means an association of people whose purpose for group work yields good results not only for the members but to the community in general and even to the humanity at large. Cooperative is a business organization by profit, but rather the result of mutual association whose objective is equitable economic betterment of man and the society in which he lives. According to the MOCD, cooperatives are regulated by a set of principals. These principles were formulated by a group of people who lived in a village in England known as Rochdale, and they are therefore referred to as Rochdale pioneers. They formed the first successful cooperative society   in 1884. This society which was a consumer cooperative society was formed in 1844 when Britain was undergoing industrial revolution. As a result of the revolution, a lot of people lost their jobs in the factories as machines were introduced to replace them. In addition to this there was general lack of credit and supply of essential commodities like salt, sugar, flour and cooking fat. Businessmen also took advantage of this situation and started offering impure products at high prices. It is against this background that Rochdale Pioneers decided to draw up some sort of principles which would guide their operation as cooperative society.   These principles were intended for the regulation of cooperative society as indicated by the great stress on the sale of pure products and the sale of goods for cash only. It was therefore found necessary to formulate the principles for adoption by other types of cooperatives. The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Commission of 1966 adopted the following principles which are genuine for the running of a genuine cooperative society:- Open and voluntary membership, democratic administration (one man, one vote), limited interest on share capital, payments of dividends and bonuses to members, promotion of education and cooperation with other cooperatives at local national and international levels. According to Ouma (1980), the traditional cooperatives have been in existence in Kenya, as it has been elsewhere, from time immemorial. Examples of such cooperative practices are to be found in Kenya. The group association is normally based on lineage according to the natural geographic environment in which the members of the group are born. This is usually based on clan or people who live within the same village. It can be stated with fair amount of certainty that the   traditional forms of cooperation do generally speaking, form the basis for the establishment of modern cooperative organizations. There is for instance in Luo, Saga whereby a group of people do ploughing, weeding or harvest for each member of the group in turn. In Kwath, members of the group look after their cattle together for three or more days consecutively, in turn. In Kikuyu there is what is called ngwatio (Mwethya in Kamba) whereby members of the group get together to build houses for themselves, each member of the group breinging what is required for the construction e.g. grass and poles. When the first house is completed then the members start on the next one. In Kisii, there is what is called obituary wherby men go on a job hunting exercise, and when they kill an animal, they will either divide it or take it home (village) where it mis cooked and eaten communally by all the villagers. Among the Kalenjin there is the practice of Kokwet wherby a group of people   would go out to harvest or weed the garden of their members in turn. The Kalenjin also have Loget whereby the men   go in a joint   effort to kill animals for food. According to Ouma(1980), practically all the ethnic groups in this country, whether small or big, has since time immemorial practiced mutual association in order to satisfy their needs socially, economically or otherwise. It is also necessary to point out that in the traditional forms of cooperatives, in contrast to the modern cooperatives, members had a great sense of commitment and belonging.. They had mutual trust and   were voluntarily involved in their activities and affairs.. It is of course not possible and it may not be expected that with the development of cosmopolitan populations consisting of different ethnic groups and tribes that members can still hold   together without some form of regulations. Hence the necessity to resort to legal reinforcement and education in order to develop efficient cooperative organizations. Although these associations of group effort could be deemed self help which is infect a for of cooperative , it is nevertheless true to say that the modern cooperative movement, born in Kenya during the beginning of twentieth century owed much of the cooperative idea to these earlier practices. It is also true that the modern cooperative associations in this country took a different approach and   mainly because of expediency. Its founders the British settlers- merely wanted to use it as a cheap means of business for easy profit making. They never spontaneously involved the indigenous people who already were familiar with cooperative effort. The early settlers were beset by very many problems as regards their agricultural activities. For instance prices for Agricultural products were very low, transport of the agricultural inputs and outputs to the markets by each individual settler were classical nightmares. Therefore this new system of farming with its large scale production caused the needs for associations by the few European farmers who undoubtedly had conceived the cooperative idea from the British cooperative movement back home. It will of course be recalled that the formal and successful cooperative organisations started in Britain in 1844. In 1908, they resolved to join together at a place called Lumbwa and formed Lumbwa cooperative Society Ltd. Although not registered as such under any cooperative Societies Act, it is deemed to be one of the modern cooperatives in Kenya. The main objective was to purchase merchandise; i.e. fertilizers, chemical seeds, and other agricultural inputs through collective effort, and to market their produce collectively thus taking advantage of the economy of scale. It would appear quite clear at this point that cooperatives in Kenya did not start as a poor mans defensive weapon against the exploitation by the middlemen, as it had started in Europe and elsewhere. It was on the contrary an easier means to enable the white settlers to receive high returns from their agricultural produce. Thus it was rather an economic necessity for the well to do and not the ordinary man with little or no means at all. It will be remembered that during this time, there was no cooperative societies ordinance to regulate and to assist the management of these cooperative efforts in Kenya. It is also not clear whether or   not Lumbwa Cooperative society ltd was registered even under the companies Act, otherwise calling it a co-operative society was misleading. However one thing remains certain, and that is that the settlers wanted to maximize their profits by trading under the pretext of a co-operative organisation, thereby enjoying its privileges. According to Ouma (1980) many self help groups, most of which were very small and un-economic, were started all over the country. But these were not economically viable and consequently had to be amalgamated into larger economic units. These were for instance Kenya farmers association (co-operatives), Kenya planters co-operative union, Kenya cooperative creameries and Horticultural cooperative union. It is a fact that these institutions formed the backbone and the base for formal cooperative movement in this country. These initial cooperative ventures in Kenya were unfortunately not quite in the spirit of the Rochdale Pioneer Cooperative Society. They never for example, observed the principle of membership, for no African could participate in it until later. The need to form formal cooperative organisations arose when some African peasant farmers realized that they were being exploited, especially by the Asian traders who were paying very low prices for their agricultural produce. As early as in the 1930s there were attempts to form cooperatives by the indigenous people of Kenya, in spite of lack of proper guidance. Of these early attempts two examples can be mentioned here, The Taita vegetable company and the Kisii coffee Growers cooperative. The farmers had 239 members and bought 3 lorries at the cost of $1170 out of the profits made from the operations. The group was producing, grading, transporting and selling on the mombasa market over 900,000Lbs of vegetables a year and the growers received over $4,500 out of a gross selling price of $ 6300. This was indeed too substantial an enterprise to be left without a legal basis. It was later registered as cooperative society. The Kisii coffee growers Association which was able to raise from the sale of its coffee a sum of $2470 of which   $1240 was paid out to the 251 members who had cultivated only 159 acres, but had already accumulated a surplus of $1065. In 1994, the British Colonial Office in London appointed Mr. W.K.H Campbell to come to investigate the possibilities of African participation in the cooperative organisations. He carried out his investigations by touring and visiting many towns and districts in the republic of Kenya and talking to the people. After all his investigations Mr. Campbell submitted his recommendations that subject to availability of capable staff attempts to organise cooperatives were worth while. It was also during this time that the first African Mr. Eliud Mathu was nominated to the legislative assembly, as the Kenya parliament was called then. He demanded in parliament and such people as Ex chief Koinange from outside, that the Government should come out openly to encourage African participation in the cooperative movement. It was as a result of Campbells recommendation that the cooperative societies (Registration) Amendment, Ordinance of 1932 was repealed and the cooperative societies Ordinance of 1945 was enacted under Cap. 287. It was as a result of this new ordinance that the department of cooperatives was created, although it was placed under different ministries at various times. Consequent to the establishment of the department, a registrar ( now called commissioner for cooperative Development) was appointed and together with his staff was responsible for registration and promotion of cooperative societies in the country. The 1945 cooperative societies ordinance further gave the registrar certain powers over cooperative societies, for example refusal to register a cooperative society, cancellation of certificate of registration, to audit societys books of accounts, authority to inspect books of society, authority to settle disputes in cooperat