Fedex Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Fedex - Essay Example FedEx has market competitors who provide similar services. These include TNT, DHL and United Parcel Services as the main competitors. However, FedEx has a substantial market share despite the stiff competitiveness. FedEx has diversified to provision of printing services, which mainly targets organizations that have bulk of work that requires to be printed. In addition, the company targets professionals and organizations in producing their documents, providing information technology services and doing any other work within the organizational mandate. One of the largest markets of FedEx is found in the supply chain. Companies and organizations that supply goods are a target market for FedEx since they constantly transport goods from one place to another, both locally and internationally. In the supply chain FedEx provides an array of services including transportation, keeping inventory of goods, and transportation management. From a broad perspective, the market for FedEx is very broad. Individuals, small businesses, professionals, large corporations, governments, and other organizations provide market for FedEx. However, the largest market is taken up by the individuals and organizations in the supply

Naval academy Essay topic Essay Example for Free

Naval academy Essay topic Essay With? my? career? and? academic? goals? coming? to? a? nearing? sight.? I? am? honored? to? write? about? why? I? want? to? take? the? steps? into? attending? a? military? academy? ? From? first? learning? about? the? military? academies? through? a? close? friend? that? moved? from? florida? to? vandenberg? air? force? base? and? later? became? friends? through? lompoc? high? school.? I? realized? that? key? terms? such? as? leadership,? academics,? and? diversity all? things? that? the? academies? are? looking? for? in? students,? apply? to? me. ? From? a? young? age? my? teachers? have?  always? characterised? me? as? a? leader.? The? most? memorizable? quote? I? can? remember? during? a? parent? teacher? conference? with? my? 6th? grade? teacher? is? her? sasying? how? amazed? she? is? that? I? could? mingle? with? many? different? groups? with? many? interest? and? still? maintain? a? high? academic? academic? statue.? This? has? been? true all? through? high? school? with? being? part? of? many? sports? teams? such? as? basketball,? baseball,? wrestling,? and? the? captain? of? the? football? team. socially? I? have? been? part? of? chess? tournaments? with? the? chess?club,? treasure? of? my? class,? nominated? for? student? of? the? quarter,? admitted? into? youth? leadership? of? lompoc? valley,? youth? cfo? of? colas? kids? non? profit? organization,? and? the? list? goes? on.? ? ? Many? ask? why? a? military? academy,? why? not? a? college? or? university? not? related? to? the? military.? One? of? my? reasons? definitely? not? my? biggest? is? financially? I? wouldnt? be? able? to? pay? for? college.? Living? with? my? mother,? living? with? my? grandparents,? living? with? the? my? dad? in? government? housing,? living? alone,? and? currently? living? in?section? 8? housing? with? father? and? step? mother.? Financially? college? is? a? goal? achievable? through? academics? and? diversity? ,? but? will? always? have? the? restrain? financially? to? pay? for? tuition.? ? Being? admitted? and? attending? an? academy? will? not? only? help? me? along? with? my? family? financially? but? u? will? have? a? chance? to? serve? my? country? with? the? utmost? gratitude.? My? parents? have? never? pushed? me? to? apply? at? a? military? academy,? the? goal? of? admission? has? solely? been? through? self? motivation.? With? my? career? goals? being? in?the? field? of? engineering? (mechanical? in? preference)? I? have? researched? the? naval? academy? and? earning bachelors? in? science? at? the? academy? would? kick? start? my? future? with? opportunities? that? other? universities? cant? offer.? Knowing? that? you? must? complete? a? term? in? the? military? after? the? academy? has? no? change? to? my? decision.? From? meeting? first? srgt.? Eric? simon? on? the? Air? Force? base,? he? has? became? an? inspiration? to? become? a? man? of? respect.? I? first? met? him? through? my? best? friend,? srgt.? Simon? being? his? father.? When? I? first? met? him? my? first? impression? was? this? man? is? someone? to? respect? and? honor? with? gratitude? for? protecting? and? serving? our? country.? I? later? learned? through? experience? that? srgt.? Simon? is? a? great? father? and? man? all? around.? Coming? from? an? unhealthy? family? in? Maryland? I? have? been? able? to? relate? and? look? up? to? him? as? a? father? figure.? The? experience? of? meeting? srgt.? Simon? has? made? me? more? than? ready? to? serve? in? the? armed? services.? I? want? to? show? my? four? younger? brothers? that? If? I? can? do? it? they? can? do?it? ,? while? establishing? a? role? model? position? for? them.? ? Being? admitted? to? the? naval? academy? or? another? military? academy? has? been? my? goal? from? the? beginning? of? high? school.? Aiming? everything? I? do.? And? pushing? myself? to? be? a? stand? out? candidate.? I? am? more? than? willing? to? serve? my? term? of? service? with? the? utmost? gratitude? and? respect? for? my? country.? The? reason? I? feel? that? i? standout? among? the? other? candidates? is? how? diverse? I? am? in? all? the? aspects? the? academies? are? looking? for.? Being? a? leader? in? sports?activities,? through? team? voting? I? became? the? football? captain,? having? four? little? brothers? I? lead? them? everyday? as? a? role? model.? Academically? I? strive? in? the? classroom? ,? recieving? scholar? awards? throughout? high? school? ,? and? achieving? top? 20? percent? of? my? class.? through? the? community? of? school? ,? being? involved? in? many? groups? and? organizations.? Also? outside? of? school? in? my? community? of? Santa? Barbara? county? through? community? service? and? helping? organizations? such? as? the? American? G. I.? Forum? along? with? many? others.?

Network Troubleshooting Symptoms And Solutions

Network Troubleshooting Symptoms And Solutions Data transfer from one point to another is the most important aspect of computers. Networks should be safe, reliable and secure for data movement. Any problem which occurs with computer networks causes havoc. Understanding networks, the way they work, and how they are built helps a network administrator to identify and fix the problems. 11.2 Procedure to troubleshoot network problems A simple formula that enables network administrators solve any kind of network problem is: Identify the symptoms. Identify the affected area. Determine what has changed Select the most probable cause Implement a solution Test the result Recognise the potential effects of the solution Document the solution 11,2,1 Identify Symptoms Indicators are either physical or logical symptoms that help determine the nature of the problem, the reach of the problem, etc. These symptoms enable a network administrator to take timely preventive measures to solve the problem before it grows beyond control. System or operator problems System errors arise from a computer, network device or a process that is not related to a users direct interaction with the system or network. Such errors can occur due to hardware failure, faults in the process of data transfer or manipulation. Operator errors are a direct consequence of a users action. The actions that can cause such errors may be incorrect log in, wrong connections to a server, misidentification of servers or network devices, incomplete network connections, etc. Mistakes on part of the network administrator that are common causes of operator errors are misconfiguration of devices, programs or services. Link lights When a networking device detects a network connection a green or amber Light-Emitting Diode (LED) is turned ON. This is the link light that shines when in the ON state. Components of a network are designed with link lights to show the state of the network connection. When a physical network connection is present a link light remains on and another light is present that displays the current activity of the network card and blinks, pluses, during data transfer.. Link lights are designed to not light up in case of an incorrect network cable connection. By examining the link light of a device, a user can determine if a network connection is running or not. Collision lights Lights that indicate whether a certain connection is facing problems due to packets colliding with one another is a collision light. The collision light (activity light) is green while sending and receiving data and is yellow or orange when a collision error is detected. The packet being received or sent is lost when a collision occurs. Faulty cables or hubs can result in packets being generated from other packets or electrical interfaces which when in large magnitude are called chatter. These network chatters can end up halting an entire network because of data packet collision. Network administrators and users should monitor these lights to detect network chatter and avoid it. Power lights A power light indicates if there is power supply to the networking device or not. In case there is no power supply the power light is off. The power supply cables or wall connectors should be checked for proper connections while troubleshooting a network problem. Error displays A device failure or malfunction is indicated by an error display. A visual error dialogue box on the computer or an LED error display on the network device is the form of an error display. These displays also describe the problem that is detected. Typically, an error display relates to an error code that should be referred by the user to identify the cause and a suitable solution. Every physical or logical problem has a unique solution provided by its manufacturer which can be found in its documentation. Error logs and displays A list of the errors encountered on a network device is the error log. The time of the error occurrence, the nature of the error and a suitable solution is what constitutes an error log. The information found in an error log is not sufficient to solve a problem and requires the support of the related documentation to resolve the problem. Error logs are important sources of information that includes the time of the error, probable cause and other processes affected by the error. An error display gives a visual alert of a problem and logs it in the error log. Not all error displays require immediate attention but a few are warnings that do not indicate an existing error but need attention. An Event Viewer is an error logging mechanism which is typical to Windows-based OS such as Windows clients and servers. Event viewer is a critical tool in diagnosing and resolving a problem. Red-X error entries that have occurred are recorded in an event viewer. This is an application that reads the binary log files stored at system32config folder. To view the error logs, the network administrator requires to view the config folder because the event viewer collects information from the files located in that folder. Error logs are of three types which should be monitored by the network administrator regularly and they are as follows:. System log Error messages that are related to device driver failure, service start failure and general information about OS events are recorded in the system log. Security log When auditing has been enabled all security related events are recorded in a security log. Application log Events that are generated by application running on top of the OS are recorded in an application log. Identify network problems Troubleshooting a network is one of the key concept in networking. Identifying network problems and determining methods of troubleshooting these problems is vitally important for smooth functioning of a network. The job of highlighting the problem is usually done by the network user. This should not be the basis on which an administrator should attack a problem. It is advisable to experience the problem in person along with the user who reported it. This helps the network administrator confirm if the problem is real or just an error. There are certain users whose knowledge about computers and networks is not vast. With such users when a problem is reported, a first-hand inspection and confirmation are necessary. The best approach to solving a problem is by determining its scope. The reason why an understanding of the nature of the problem is essential is that it determines the line of attack. Gathering information helps the network administrator to narrow down to the root of the problem. This approach avoids a network administrator spending unnecessary time on unnecessary jobs. After the network administrator is able to pinpoint the cause of the problem, then finding a solution is possible. A network administrator must first gather information to find out if the problem is with a single computer or with the entire network. In case the problem is local, then the entire network is not burdened and a solution can be found easily. The first logical step that is to be taken is to check all cable connections to and from the system. It is not advisable to look into bigger issues or target larger sources when the cause might be very simple. The reason why a system is not able to connect to other systems may be that the network cable is not plugged in properly into the system. When the cable is connected properly, the network connection is up and running. For example, if two systems in a network are not able to communicate with each other then the network administrator can perform simple checks like verifying the connections between the systems or connections to the network A network administrator should check if a problem is consistent and replicable. If the problem reported unique to a system or can it be replicated in other systems in the network. If the same problem is reported from another system also, then the problem is consistent and replicable. The degree of damage is high in such a case since many systems are affected. If the problem is identified to be with the network, then the network administrator must reach to the cause of the problem step-by-step. A large computer network requires a lot of effort from the network administrators and users for it to run smoothly. Adding to the huge task of maintenance is the job of fixing a problem. It becomes difficult to identify the actual problem for there are numerous workgroups and workstations. It is advisable to approach large network problems with the trial and error method. The administrator should first check the local system from where a problem has been reported. A thorough check of its cable connections, network links, power supplies and so on should be done. If the problem is not with a local system then other systems in the vicinity should be checked. The routers to and from the system should be verified for proper functioning. The various connections should be verified. One of the best methods to check and fix network problems is to try connecting to other systems and parts of the network by pinging to them. 11.2.2 Identify the affected area. After the cause of the problem is identified it is simple logic to isolate the affected area. This step helps an administrator narrow down to the core of the problem. With many issues to be handled at a time; administrators must prioritise the problems. Issues which affect work to a large extent should be fixed first and the rest should follow sequentially. By doing this the downtime can be reduced and the system can be fixed faster. Same line, different computer While trying to solve a problem it is important to isolate the affected system. A simple method of testing if the problem is replicable is by replacing the original workstation with another system which is known to have no problems. By confirming if the problem is with the local system or beyond it, the network administrator eliminates one factor of the problem. An easy way of isolating the system is by replacing it with another system. This step determines if a problem is computer specific or not. Same computer, different line When a user reports of a problem, another method by which the administrator can reach the cause of the problem is by changing the network cables for the system. By doing this, the possibility of a network error can be identified or nullified. In case the system works properly with a new connection, then it is for sure that the problem is with the original network and not the computer. Swapping components In a network, hubs, cables, terminators can be swapped with other systems to check for replication or consistency of a problem. This helps in case there is a faulty component and the work of the original system user is not disturbed since a spare is in place. This step helps determine the scope of the problem and address it appropriately. Prioritising work is very important for network administrators and network administrators since the time and effort used to fix a problem should help users to get back to work faster. Bigger and crucial problems require immediate action while the smaller ones can be addressed after the bigger ones are fixed. Isolating segments of the network By isolating parts of the network spread of the problem is checked such that the entire network does not collapse. The systems which have reported issues are required to be disconnected from the network and terminators plugged in. This is a safe practice as it helps the network administrators fix the problem with lesser overloads of data and work. Steps for problem isolation are given in Table 11.1 Step Action Determine which systems are and which are not showing symptoms. Separate the systems that are showing symptoms from those that are not with hubs or terminators. Rule out simple issues. Reset all major connections to and from the system. Eliminate cable problems. Check for physical damage or erroneous connections of cables. Eliminate serious cable issues. Use TDR to find out cable problems. Table 11.1 Methods to isolate network problems. 11.2.3 Determine what has changed Computer networks have many components, both hardware and software that can be replaced or reset to meet the requirements of the business. This can also be one of the causes of a network problem. For example, if a user reports of a problem after a system in a network is replaced then the administrator should check if the address of the changed system is properly recorded and connected with the existing network. To be able to fix problems when changes are made to the network, it is advisable to maintain proper records of all details about the new and existing network such as the points of change, the components of change, their versions, IP addresses and network cables. A detailed documentation system helps fix such issues quickly. Checking the status of servers Servers are an integral and crucial resource in a network. Their health is very important for functioning of a network. Therefore it is logical to check the server status when faced with a problem. If sever issues are not addresses on time, then the degree of damage can be high. A few server monitoring tasks that can monitor their status are as follows: Check services Check error logs Check connectivity Monitor performance and network traffic Confirm alerts and alarms Verify backup logs along with test restores. Checking error logs Error logs are an important source of information for a network administrator. It throws light on the errors that have occurred and their nature. The amount of damage can also be assessed from this log. The administrator can prioritise errors on the extent of damage and fix them in that order. It is important to review the error log on a daily basis because certain errors have dependencies which can spread the damage faster. It is advisable to make it a habit to check the error logs at some point of time in the day to help the network work better. Connectivity between systems or servers can be tested using the Ping feature. If the system at the other end of the ping message responds then the connection is intact, else a thorough check of the connection should be done. Regular checks should be carried out to look out for server overload problems. An overloaded server can slow down system performance and speed. Backup servers should also be monitored for updates and performance. In the event of an emergency backup data and resources are very crucial. An alert system can be designed which can raise alarms when predefined limits are exceeded. This is a good preventive measure that helps in proper functioning of a network. Checking for configuration problems Before introducing a new resource into the network it is necessary to verify the existing configurations and connections. In case the existing settings are incorrect, then the new resource cannot work. For example, before setting up a new server it is good to check the base OS, TCP/IP, network cables, error logs and memory allocation for accuracy. This improves performance and does not allow deterioration of the system. After the existing settings and connections are verified the new resource and additional services must be configured accurately. There are a few tasks which require the entire network to be turned off for a few minutes before rebooting. This activity has to be timed for low work load hours. A few critical services which determine functioning of the entire network and requries constant monitor and accurate configuration are: DNS a Microsoft active directory and other Internet-based applications supports this service. A detailed plan should be in place before configuring a DNS which require a list of information before installation. Domain name WINS WINS is a feature similar to DNS which resolves NetBIOS names to IP addresses. This is a dynamic service which can add, modify and delete name registrations and avoid human errors and save time. WINS has many configuration possibilities and the user can add a static mapping for clients or severs. Host file Host files and DNS are similar in function. Host files require manual configuration of database with exact mappings of hostname to IP addresses. Host files reside on every computer making the process of updating difficult. It is very important to provide correct hostname to IP address mappings so that all rules that apply to the DNS, also apply to the host files. To avoid typing errors while configuring host files, it is safe to copy the existing hosts to the newly created file and on each of the machines. Checking for viruses Viruses are a huge and common threat to computers. A computer network is at greater risk as the number of computers is large and the damage can be huge. Protecting networks and computers outside of networks from viruses is a top priority job. Viruses grow in the computer world at a pace which matches the growth in the biological world. The mechanisms to destroy viruses evolve every minute to fight the strongest and newest virus. It is the job of the network administrator to keep the network free of viruses. Constant updates of virus definition files, scans to check for entry of viruses and antivirus software are the most popular and best methods to fight them. Preventive measures are best when deployed round the clock. All resources in a network should be scanned for viruses and guarded from them. Every piece of software and hardware is crucial to the smooth working of a network or system. There are a number of virus scanning utilities available in the market which enables computers to automatically update virus definition files from a core server therefore avoiding the administrator making trips to each workstation. Checking the validity of account name and password Account name and password are the gates that lead the user to a whole world of services, applications and data. Their validity matters a lot for the user to be able to access services, applications or data. Many services use the built-in system account details for success while a few other services require the user to log on to a remote system. This task requires an account name and password that resides in the network account database. To activate certain services or applications, administrative privileges or membership in certain groups is necessary which again requires account name and password. For quite a few system-related tasks, administrative rights are required which allows the user to modify certain settings to suit the need. The worst situation is when a network administrator has configured many applications and services with the administrator account which gets deleted on end of service of the administrator. If all services and applications using the administrator account are disabled and access is denied, then it is very difficult to fix this. Rechecking operator logon procedures Very often users end up facing problems with passwords. Users try to logon to a part of the network for which access is not granted, forget passwords, do not remember the case-sensitive feature of passwords, and so on. Many a times a user tries more than thrice to logon with a certain or different passwords after which the user is locked out. To resolve this minor but deep-penetrating issue the administrator must reset the password for the user. Passwords should be changed at regular intervals for safety and to avoid expiry and this is an issue for many users. Selecting and running appropriate diagnostics Diagnostics is an essential tool to even out variations and eradicate potential problems in a network. Though this is a preventive mechanism the benefits of using it are many. Diagnostics look out for bottlenecks and problematic situations. Diagnostic tools bring out problems or drawbacks and limitations that can be fixed before they erupt as big problems. While choosing a diagnostic program the user should bear in mind the network requirements for which it is to be employed. Smaller networks should use simple diagnostic programs while large networks require extensive protocol analysing and packet sniffing products. Free diagnostic products such as performance monitor and network monitor work well for a medium sized network. To utilise the tool to the maximum without affecting the network performance, the network administrator must research the diagnostic product in depth. With experience and products like these, an administrator is able to identify the problem in time and resolve it effectively. A reliable baseline of activities must be established for testing. Snapshots of different activities at different time periods of the day, week and month helps assess the network efficiently and accurately. 11.2.4 Select the most probable cause Of the many steps suggested to solve a problem, experience of the network administrator is a capability that matters a lot for the process. In case the network administrator is not well versed with the network or common network issues, resolving becomes a tough task. The way a network administrator approaches a problem solves the issue to quite an extent for it can guide or misguide the way the solution is built. In case a new or an outside network administrator is being roped in to solve a network problem the chances of long system downtime is high. The new network administrator has to get familiarised with the network, and then look out for probable causes. The more the experienced the network administrator is, the easier it is to solve the problem. Many a times problems may be similar across systems and a network administrator can tap the experience from the past to fix it faster. A company can benefit largely from a full-time network administrator and who knows the details of the network at the back of the mind. Common problems and their probable causes The common network problems are their probable causes are given in Table 11.2 Problem Probable cause Cannot connect to a computer on a remote network. A routing issue in all probability. Check if it is possible to connect to a local system and ping the router or another system on the remote network. Communication in the entire network is down. If in a coax-based network, check for loose connections. If in a twisted-pair network, check if the hub is operational. If in a token ring network, check if the computer is not beaconing. Takes a very long time to connect to a network resource. Network may be overloaded. A device on the system is not functioning and network connection is not possible. A network card configuration issue in most cases. Check if the NIC is configured properly. Driver may be loaded incorrectly. Communication in a local network is not possible, but other networks are working. Check if the hub/switch is not locked up. Check if the network adapter is configured properly. No Internet access. Check the Internet gateway. Check the router present has a dedicated Internet connection. Check the Internet providers network. Token ring network is locked up. Someone in the network is beaconing. Also check if the bridge is locking up. Table 11.2 Certain problems and probable causes 11.2.5 Implement a solution In order to fix a problem a network administrator can consult others, read related documents, research from the Internet and seek help from the vendor help lines. Finally with a solution on hand that seems most suitable it should be implemented without any delay. 11.2.6 Test the result Confirming if the solution implemented is correct and has solved the problem is very crucial to the problem solving process. Any user contacts the network administrator with a hope of fixing the problem and getting back to work. If the network administrator leaves the user without confirming if the solution provided is correct, then the purpose of the network administrator being present is defeated. It is the duty of the network administrator to ensure that the problem with which the user had approached does not repeat. 11.2.7 Recognise the potential effects of the solution With a working solution in place the next factor that a network administrator should consider is the aftermath of the solution. Many instances can be found where a certain solution to a problem has triggered problems in other parts of the system or network. This cascading effect of a solution requires to be monitored and checked. For example, a user may report a system communication problem and a solution can be provided by resetting of the network cables. The local problem of the system not being able to communicate might be solved, but the system might still not be able to connect to some other parts of the network. Such rippling effects of a solution require attention from the network administrator. Proper implementation of a solution, confirming its working and nullifying all side effects of a solution completes the solution phase. 11.2.8 Documenting the solution After a problem reported has been solved and work is back to normal, it is the job of the network administrator who solved it to document it properly for future use. The fact that certain problems might recur after some period of time, a new network administrator might face a problem already solved earlier, and so on are the reasons why documentation is necessary. An organisation benefits from proper documentation of troubleshooting when there is a change of hands with network administrators, saving on time by not going through the whole process after an apt solution is found by one. It even benefits when a certain solution has faded in the memory of a network administrator. Proper documentation for each aspect of troubleshooting is as good as providing an appropriate solution on time. 11.3 Common connectivity issues in a network The common connectivity issues in a network can be of two types network failure due to physical problems such as device or cable issues and logical problems such as invalid IP addresses or VLAN problems. 11.3.1 Physical issues Cabling problems are the most common physical issues. Visual indicators such as link lights, activity lights and collision lights can be used to fix these problems. A few common problems that a network administrator fixes are: Recognising abnormal physical conditions To be able to recognise deviations from the normal, a good knowledge of what is the normal is essential. If the user is not aware of the default information, then it is not possible to alter or reset details. A user should be aware of certain issues in order to spot a problem. These issues are as follow: Authentication takes more time. More errors are logged than usual. Printing is taking more time. Connecting to a network is getting slower. Connections to resources are being lost. Isolating and correcting problems in the physical media Network cables are the most vulnerable resources in a network. They end up leading to a whole range of problems and can get fixed easily. The cable which is at a high risk of problems is the cable from the workstation to the wall jack. A solution as simple as plugging it back can solve network problems at times. If the problem is not solved, try another cable and try with other cables till contact is established. Cable problem Probable solution Communication in the entire network is down. Check if the cable is intact. The point at which the cable has been damaged should be reconnected with a new cable. The new UTP cable is not enabling network communication. The network is working with the test cable. The new UTP cable might be a crossover cable. Test the connections with a cable tester and replace the UTP cable if not fine. A system was moved to a new location and is not able to communicate now. The system is working properly. Cables might be damaged during transit. Replace the old cables with new ones for proper connection. Table 11.3: Common cable problems and probable solutions. Crosstalk When adjacent wires interfere with a certain wire system it is called crosstalk. The first indication of crosstalk is signal degradation. Using another cable type with multiple layers of shielding is the best solution for this problem. Nearing cross talk Issues in network connectivity occur when a cable wire causes electromagnetic interference in the wires adjacent to it and releases a current. This point has the strongest possibility of cross talk and is generally present in the first part of the wire which is connected to a connector, switch or NIC. Nearing crosstalk helps to measure this type of cross talk. Attenuation Signals degrade as the distance they travel increases, this is called attenuation. If a user finds it difficult to communicate with system at quite a distance, then the maximum cable length for that type of cable would have exceeded. In such a case, a repeater can be used at some point in the cable to reamplify signals or a different cable type can be used. Collisions Data collision is a common issue when there are many systems in a network. Data packets travelling across the network collide with each other affecting network performance. To resolve this issue network hubs can be replaced with switches which has each port on the switch owning its own network segment ensuring that data does not collide. Shorts A network short leads to network downtime. Using a cable analyser to identify shorts can reduce the problem of connectivity and shorts. Open impedance mismatch (echo) Network signals bounce causing communication problems due to high impedance. Signals bounce because of miswired cables or incorrect connectors. Recrimping of the cable is a good solution to avoid high impedance problems. Interference Network cables experience signal interference from external components like power cables, backup lines, etc. Network cables should be laid away from agents that can interfere with its signals. 11.3.2 Logical issues Logical issues have simple solutions but can lead to huge problems if not addressed properly. A few logical issues and solutions are listed in this section. Port speed and duplex settings Confirming that the speed and duplex settings of the network card are set correctly avoids problems for systems connecting to each other across a network. Incorrect VLAN Communication between systems across VLANs is not possible unless there is routing done between them. Therefore placing systems corresponding to the VLAN is important. Incorrect IP address If IP addresses of systems a

Teens Choice to Drink :: essays research papers

Article Summery Beyond Invulnerability: The Importance of Benefits in Adolescents’ Decision to Drink Alcohol Introduction: Many things affect the choice of an adolescent to drink alcohol. It is thought that this particular age group thinks that they are not vulnerable to the risks involved with drinking alcohol. Studies in this area have resulted in mixed conclusions; some support the idea of adolescent invulnerability others do not. Intervention programs seem to work better if they are aimed at reducing risk taking behaviors than helping an adolescent realize their true invulnerability (in fact vulnerability). Older adolescents seem to be more likely to participate in risky behavior because of positive outcomes of previous risky behavior. This experiment is to find out how adolescents perceive the benefits of risky behavior and how the perceived benefits motivate risky behavior. Five main questions will be discussed: 1. How do individuals perceive both the benefits and risks of drinking alcohol? 2. How do risk and benefit perceptions differ across age group? 3. Experience differs with age, so how do risk and benefit perceptions differ by experience? 4. Do risk and benefit perceptions predict drinking and smoking 6 months later? 5. What is the relative contribution of perceived benefits (or perceived risks) in predicting risk taking behavior? This article is about a longitudinal study, but only focuses on the last two (of three) experiments which were spaced 6 months apart. Methods: The sample for this experiment is taken from fifth, seventh and ninth graders in Northern California. The participants were chosen by one of two methods mail based or classroom based. The mail method (letters were sent to the home) recruited 89 fifth graders, 130 seventh graders and 58 ninth graders. The classroom method (information was given to students at school) resulted in 36 fifth graders, 18 seventh graders and 102 ninth graders. Participants were given surveys to complete (and later compensated with $$). The answers on the surveys were measured in a few different ways. An individual’s benefit versus risk perception was measured by having the participants fill in a certain probability (percent) that a benefit or risk will happen as a result of a risky behavior. To measure a participants’ previous experience with benefits or risk they were asked yes or no questions, for example, have you ever liked the buzz you got from drinking alcohol? Or have you ever gotten sick from drinking alcohol? An individual’s experience with drinking was also measured by a 5 point Likert scale, participants could chose any point on a range from none to more than 10 times to answer the questions how many times have they drunk alcohol and how many times have they have had six or more drinks.

Management of pressure ulcers in a high risk patient: a case study

1. Introduction Clinically, pressure ulcers are defined as the lesions that are the result of localized tissue damage or cell death (generally necrosis), developed because of pressure over a bony prominence.More commonly, they are also known as pressure sores or bedsores as they are mainly developed by patients that are bed-bound (Wake, 2010). Approximately, 3 million adults are affected by pressure ulcers and are most common in hospitalized patients (Lyder and Ayello, 2008). However, effective management and care plans against pressure ulcers are still lacking. The role of nursing care is a fundamental aspect to pressure ulcer management, including its prevention and treatment (Wake, 2010). In this case study report, I visited a diabetic patient as a district nurse for insulin administration and provide support by assessing the patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcers due to associated pathological and other risk factors.1.1. Purpose of the studyIn all health care settings, pressure ulce rs remain one of the major issues. More so, pressure sores or pressure ulcers are associated with significant cause for morbidity in the medical community. The main purpose of this patient visit was to provide healthcare support for patients who were at risk of developing pressure ulcer. The healthcare support included the risk minimisation by doing risk assessment, therapeutic interventions, suggestions for lifestyle changes including exercise and dietary habit. All these were targeted with the views of providing timely assessment of pressure ulcers in high risk patients, and suggest therapeutic interventions for timely treatment of the condition.1.2.Patient historyThe patient was 75 years old male, diabetic and paralysed due to recent stroke attack. He was completely bed bound and was on wheelchair. Furthermore, the patient was suffering from cancer of the oesophagus. Since the patient could not mobilize, his family members and carers used to transfer him from the bed to his whe elchair and wheelchair to his bed.1.3. Risk assessments of needs, vulnerabilities and strengths of the patientThe patient was chronically ill and had several complications associated with his conditions. Stroke attack had caused him paralysis and was unable to move. This had put him in significant risk of developing pressure ulcers. The patient was also diabetic. Diabetes causes slow healing of wounds that may lead to ulcer (Guo, et.al. 2010). In this patient, the combination of factors including diabetes and immobility had increased his risk of developing pressure ulcers. Other factors such as old age of the patient, cancer and dietary factors would trigger the development of these pressure sores. Cancer is a chronic disease that may cause severe debilitation and prolonged confinement to bed. Therefore, it is expected that patients with cancer are at significant risk of developing pressure ulcers (Walker, 2001). Diet may have a supporting role in the development of pressure ulcers . Although the role of nutrition in preventing the development of pressure ulcers is still debatable, it is obvious that patients who are malnourished are at risk of developing those (Doley, 2010). Thus, nutrition therapy could be central in minimising the risk of developing pressure ulcers. It was seen that the patient was clearly underweight due to his chronic health conditions. Overall, the following risk factors of the patient were considered while making his assessment. Based on these risk factors, care plans and suggestions were made to minimise the risk in the patient. Sensory factor: This factor was assessed in order to identify how well the patient can process sensory input from the skin, as well as how effectively he can communicate level of sensation. Since the assessment of skin is an important way to identify patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcers, it would ensure the degree of risk of pressure ulcer in this patient and hence, take measures to prevent them before complications arise. Moisture: Moisture is another hallmark of pressure ulcers. Excess skin moisture puts patients at greater risk of developing pressure ulcers. It is common that patients who are confined to bed produce more sweat. Thus, it is required to evaluate what degree the skin is exposed to moisture. Activity Lack of activity is one of major risk factors of developing pressure ulcers in bedbound patients. Continuous friction between the skin and bed mattress may result the development of pressure sores. Measuring the activity is another important parameter to predict the patients’ risk of pressure, irrespective of their degree of mobility. Patients who are unable to move need to be physically turned by healthcare staffs or family members at regular intervals Nutrition As mentioned earlier, although nutrition may not have direct effects on the patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcers, it may be possible that lack of required nutrients may increase its complications. It is thus important to evaluate what constitutes the usual pattern and amount of caloric intake in the patients. After evaluating the above risk factors in the patient, it was concluded that the patient was likely to develop pressure ulcers if timely interventions were not introduced. These would have direct effect in patient’s health. These ulcers influence the risk of bacterial and viral infections, which can become life threatening in chronically ill patients. In addition, there is a high rate of mortality associated with pressure ulcers. Mortality rate is high as 60% is reported in older patients with pressure ulcers within 1 year of hospital discharges (Lyder and Ayello, 2008). The patient in this case study could have weakened immune system due to his old age and illnesses such as cancer and diabetes. In immune-compromised patients, the risk of infections spreading into their blood and other organs of the body are considerably high. This may result blood poisoning and septicaemia. Both these conditions are very fatal and categorised as medical emergencies (Redelings, et.al. 2005). However, despite of several associated risk factors, the patient was provided with proper care and support by his carers and family members. He was regularly taken off from his bed with the support of wheelchair. More so, the patient was on medications to control his blood sugar. He was also supplemented with vitamin to strengthen his immunity. To conclude, patient although was receiving appropriate healthcare service, these were mainly therapeutics which included medications against the chronic illnesses which he had. Patient and family members were lacking suggestions and expert advice in regards to minimising the risk of pressure ulcers. It was also observed that the patient was provided with a normal bed and mattress that would further trigger the risk of developing sores. 2. Interventions and referrals After evaluating the patient’s condition, as a district nurse, I provided the evidence based interventions and referrals to the patient and his family members and carers as preventive approaches of pressure ulcers. Firstly, the patient was provided with a hospital bed with pressure relieving mattresses. This would help minimise the friction between patient’s body and the bed and hence, reduce the risk of pressure ulcers. Moreover, this would provide support surfaces and help in pressure redistribution (Stannard, 2012). Several recommendations for skin care including the use of cold water instead of hot water, use of mild cleansing agents to minimise irritation and dryness of the skin and excessive moisture was suggested. The patient was also advised to avoid low humidity as it may promote scaling and dryness (Lyder and Ayello, 2008). Further suggestion such as avoiding mechanical loading was given. This is considered as one of the most effective preventive measures of p ressure ulcers in hospitalized patients (Lyder and Ayello, 2008). Thus, family members were advised to frequently turn and reposit the patient while in bed. It is essential that patient intake adequate levels of both macro and micronutrients to prevent complications of pressure ulcers. This patient was already supplemented with vitamins and minerals, so no action was taken. However, the patient was suggested to eat diet high in proteins, which are essential for wound-healing and overcome malnutrition. Management of pain is another key aspect in patients with pressure ulcers (Cooper, 2013). Pressure ulcers can be very painful and may require interventions with analgesics (Wake, 2010). However, this patient did not require analgesic treatment as the pain due to pressure ulcers was not very severe. Instead, focus was given on the preventative approaches in minimising the complications associated with pressure ulcers. Finally, the focus was given on the patient/carer education in the management of pressure ulcers. Both patient and carers/family members were made aware about the risk factors of pressure ulcers. Also, they were educated and made aware on the most vulnerable sites of the body that are at risk of developing pressure ulcers. General training was also given on how to take care of skins and methods for pressure reduction. They were told about the severity of the condition and requested to seek medical advice if symptoms of pressure ulcers persist. 3.Critical evaluation and evidence-based examination of outcomes of interventions and referrals The interventions and referrals made for the patient in this case study were evidence based. Risk assessment was made considering the standard pressure ulcer prediction tool, Braden Scale, by observing the six vital signs of pressure ulcers as explained earlier. This tool has allowed for the early prediction of pressure ulcers and thus introduction of early interventions before the complications are developed (Sving, 2014). Classification of pressure ulcers is one of the best ways to predict its outcome. Pressure ulcers are classified into various stages (Lyder and Ayello, 2008). Stage I is determined by the presence of redness in the skin. In case if the redness in the skin is observed, nurses are required to make thorough skin inspection and advice patients about the preventive measures. Stage II is characterized by the loss of skin with the presence of blisters. In stage III loss of skin is quite thick; however, not exposed to muscle or bone tissue. In this stage, there is a high risk of infections, so care should be given in personal hygiene (Sving, 2014). Also, patient should be suggested to include vitamins and minerals in the diet to prevent the possible risk of infection. In stage IV there may be an exposure to bone, tendon and muscle. This condition is considered as potentially dangerous, due to associated risk of life threatening bacterial infections. In many cases, this may also require hospi tal admission to reduce further complications (Lyder and Ayello, 2008; Sving, 2014). To conclude, nurses are required to assess various stages of pressure ulcers and provide treatments and suggestions based on these stages. This is because; different stages of pressure ulcers may require different treatment plans. Some could be minor and may be improved through general suggestions such as encouraging patients to move and involve in physical activities and maintaining healthy diet; whereas some may require therapeutic interventions including the use of antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, dressing and cleaning of the wound and hospital admissions if complications are severe. (Wake, 2010). Ample evidence is now available on the understanding of effective pressure ulcer treatments. Treatment strategies such as use of hospital bed, avoiding mechanical loading, and physical activity are now considered as the standard form of treatments in pressure ulcers. These approaches not only reduce the risk of pressure ulcers, but are also beneficial in lowering its complications. Furthermore, the association of pressure ulcers with other chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and stroke are well understood. Thus, much attention is to be given while giving care to the patients who have these conditions. Educating patient and family members on the risk factors and management is another approach to pressure ulcer management as suggested by NICE guidelines (Wake, 2010) However, the available knowledge on the evaluation of risk assessment of pressure seems insufficient. The evidence lacks support and requires further epidemiological research to understand risk factors of pressure ulcers in greater depth. Some of the interventions and their effectiveness including re-positioning and nutrition are still questionable. Further studies on the influence of different turning intervals on the development of pressure ulcers need to be carried out. Similarly, what specific diet is suitable for pressure ulcer patients needs further clarification. Appendix1: Care plan of the patient Risk assessmentCare goalsInterventions and evaluations Patient’s needs and vulnerabilities : old age, bed-bound, chronic diseases including cancer and diabetes, paralysed due to strokeTo identify the patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcersThe patient was provided with hospital bed, cushion for his wheelchair and family members were suggested to move the patient time to time Patient’s strength: on proper medications, carers and family members providing the support, supplemented with vitamins and minerals to boost the immune functionTo build on the patient’s strengths and to meet his needsPatient was provided with full support from the family members. High protein diet was suggested as this may improve would-healing. Signs of complications, such as pain, bacterial and viral infections.To avoid complications associated with infections including blood poisoning and septicaemiaImmune booster such as vitamins and disinfectant creams to avoid infections. References Cooper, K.L. 2013, â€Å"Evidence-based prevention of pressure ulcers in the intensive care unit†, Critical Care Nurse, vol. 33, no. 6, pp. 57-66. Doley, J. 2010, â€Å"Nutrition management of pressure ulcers†, Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 50-60. Guo, S and DiPietro, L.A, 2010. Journal of dental research. Factors Affecting Wound Healing, vol. 89, no. 3, 219-229. Lyder, C.H and Ayello, E.A, 2008. Patient Safety and Quality: An Evidence-Based Handbook for Nurses. Pressure Ulcers: A Patient Safety Issue. Lyder, C.H, 2003. Clinician’s corner. Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Management, vol. 289, no. 2, pp. 223-226. Lyder, C.H. 2006, â€Å"Assessing risk and preventing pressure ulcers in patients with cancer†, Seminars in oncology nursing, vol. 22, no. 3, pp. 178-184. McInnes, E., Jammali-Blasi, A., Bell-Syer, S., Dumville, J. & Cullum, N. 2012, â€Å"Preventing pressure ulcers–Are pressure-redistributing support surfaces effectiveA Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis†,International journal of nursing studies, vol. 49, no. 3, pp. 345-359. Redelings, M.D., Lee, N.E. & Sorvillo, F. 2005, â€Å"Pressure ulcers: more lethal than we thought?†, Advances in Skin & Wound Care, vol. 18, no. 7, pp. 367-372. Stannard, D. 2012, â€Å"Support surfaces for pressure ulcer prevention†, Journal of perianesthesia nursing : official journal of the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses / American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses, vol. 27, no. 5, pp. 341-342. Stechmiller, J.K. 2010, â€Å"Understanding the role of nutrition and wound healing†, Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 61-68. Sving, E., Idvall, E., Hogberg, H. & Gunningberg, L. 2014, â€Å"Factors contributing to evidence-based pressure ulcer prevention. A cross-sectional study†, International journal of nursing studies, vol. 51, no. 5, pp. 717-725. Wake, W.T. 2010, â€Å"Pressure ulcers: what clinicians need to know†, The Permanente journal, vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 56-60.

Case Study on Organizational Behavior Essay

How will Tony Stark deal and cope with the new environment in the Reece Company? Solution: In my own opinion, since Tony is new in the company, feeling of indifference and resentment from other co-workers is inevitable. He already accepted Reece’s offer, so there’s no turning back now. Second thoughts won’t really help him with his situation. There really is a big difference with O’Grady’s and Reece’s working environment. He probably got so used to the previous company that’s why he’s having issues with the new one he’s in. There are no companies are extremely alike. What he has to do now is accept whatever is happening and exude effort in trying to make things better. He should continue interacting and reaching out to his colleagues. He should also learn to adapt to his new environment by finding out what kind of processes and procedures that the company carries out, do some background researches on what Reece has been a ccomplishing these past few years, etc. By doing such, the indifference he’s been feeling will hopefully diminish and he’ll be able to cope and adapt well. Case Questions: 1. Identify several concepts and characteristics from the field of organizational behavior that this case illustrates. 2. What advice can you give Tony? How would this advice be supported or tempered by behavioral concepts and processes? 3. Is it possible to find an ideal workplace? Answers: 1. Several concepts and characteristics from organizational behavior were illustrated in the context of this case. First, let me start with the O’Grady Company. Their technical, human, and conceptual skills seem to collide on very good terms. But their valuable human skill is the one most profound and evident in the work environment. The leadership style manifested here is positive leadership. This approach is focused on â€Å"rewards-economic†. This can be seen when it was stated in the text that Tony received three promotions and many pay increases while in the company. Now, let’s proceed to Power Styles. In here, the authorities of the leaders can be classified as â€Å"participative leaders†. They decentralize authority. They are not unilateral, and arise from consultation with followers’ participation by them. They inform their employees about conditions affecting their jobs and they are very much encouraged to express their ideas and make sugg estions. On the aspect of Leadership styles, O’Grady is practicing â€Å"Participative Leadership†. The management welcomes employees’ Inputs in decision-making and gives their suggestions great attention in making final decisions. On the other hand, Reece is practicing something very different from O’Grady. First, their human skills seem to be lacking. But their technical and conceptual skills are in good terms. When it comes to Power Styles, Autocratic leaders are very evident in this company. The power is centralized and decision making is up to the top management. They take full responsibility and authority over the company. This is evident when it was mentioned in the case that Reece was structured much more bureaucratically. No one was allowed to make any sort of decision without getting three signatures from higher up, and these signatures were very hard to get. On Leadership Styles, the company is manifesting â€Å"Directive Leadership†. Leaders focus on clear task assignments, standards of successful performance and work schedules. 2. Since Tony came from a company very different to the one he’s now in, he should learn to cope and adapt to his new environment. He should make an effort to learn how things are run in the new company in order to become familiarized and will be able to manage himself well. Also, he needs to network with others within the company. This may allow him to assist in areas of the company which and enabling him to earn recognition from your colleagues and other managerial figures. This will make your positive contributions to the company more apparent, and may cause people to question your supervisor if he fails to discuss your work in a positive light. Although this may be a difficult task to accomplish because of the behavior that his colleagues are exhibiting towards him. They seem to be indifferent and very apathetic. This may pose a challenge to Tony as to how he’ll be able to make this kind of environment work for him. Adapting and easing in to the company may take awhile due to such circumstances. 3. I wouldn’t really say that a person can find a very ideal workplace, but one can make the place you work ideal through risk and reward strategies , as well as figuring out how to apply your skills and passions to the field that you’re in. It’s the whole â€Å"love the one you’re with† scenario. But it is definitely possible. Also, if the workplace isn’t working out for you, don’t go rushing out the door. You shouldn’t expect to find everything that you are looking in a work place. There’s no such thing as a perfect company. There will always be something that will come up and make things uneasy or uncomfortable for you. Therefore, be the change that you are looking for. Make these anxieties and worries as an opportunity for one’s self improvement and development. In conclusion, there is a possibility to find something close to an ideal work place, but it is up to you to if you can make the disadvantages turn into advantages. Recommendation: In conclusion to all what’s been said and done, it is up to Tony Stark to make all of the inconveniences and disadvantages he’s been experiencing in the new company work for him. It’s all about adapting, coping, and being the change himself. He must consider this as a challenge for him to overcome. Running away should not be an option. Indifferent or apathetic colleagues can make your working life difficult or ineffective. These people may routinely fail to notice your accomplishments, or may quickly undermine your work without much hesitation. Although this can seriously disrupt your professional output, it’s possible to minimize the effect which your co-worker’s behavior will have on your career by deciding to emotionally detach from the situation and seek positive support from others within the company. It’s very ideal to stay calm. Although it will be tempting to argue with your supervisor, you should avoid this impulse; you need to remain professional and polite in order to prevent the situation from damaging your reputation. This will also make you appear more reasonable and focused in the event that problems do occur later on. It is also advisable to maintain positivity. Although you may have a professional problem with your negative work environment, it’s important not to take the issue personally. If you remain on friendly terms, the issue may naturally resolve itself over time as the quality of communication between you and your colleagues improves. A positive attitude will also assist you in understanding if your own behavior can be improved to successfully motivate other people into action.