Tuesday, December 09, 2003
Abstract
This essay explains what Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is, and analyzes why it is important for companies to communicate and report about it, and discusses barriers they face when doing this.
To explore the issues, scientific and professional journals, and books that cover different aspects of corporate communication about CSR were reviewed and evaluated.
The lack of a clear definition of CSR makes it difficult to decide which companies are socially responsible. Stakeholders want and get more information about companies’ contributions to society today, but apparently this makes them non-transparent. Guidelines and a definition of CSR are essential to improve conditions.
(102 words)
Here is the essay:
Corporate Communication in the 21st Century about Corporate Social Responsibility
This essay explains what Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is, and analyzes why it is important for companies to communicate and report about it, and discusses barriers they face when doing this.
To explore the issues, scientific and professional journals, and books that cover different aspects of corporate communication about CSR were reviewed and evaluated.
The lack of a clear definition of CSR makes it difficult to decide which companies are socially responsible. Stakeholders want and get more information about companies’ contributions to society today, but apparently this makes them non-transparent. Guidelines and a definition of CSR are essential to improve conditions.
(102 words)
Here is the essay:
Corporate Communication in the 21st Century about Corporate Social Responsibility
Wednesday, November 12, 2003
To your information:
At the moment I have problems with the comment links. Thus, the same answer may appear in all the comment boxes. Sorry about that.
At the moment I have problems with the comment links. Thus, the same answer may appear in all the comment boxes. Sorry about that.
Tuesday, November 11, 2003
Assignment B - Each One Teach One
I really enjoyed reading Sandy's weblog on The Space Cadet. I was amazed with the design of her weblog, and her articles and opinions are interesting to read.
I agree with her that spam is very annoying and time consuming. I was not aware that it could have such a great impact as indicated in her "Each One Teach One (EOTO) ** Spam **" project e.g. Why is spam bad? Now that I know of it, I am even more scared of the impact of spam. I only have two email accounts - one from UNC, Chapel Hill and one from my home university, and the reason for this is that I most times do not get all these annoying emails through these two accounts. Last year, I skipped my Yahoo! account because my account was a serious spam target, and I was not able to control it. However, lately I now and then get spam even on these two accounts.
Wolfgang's Blog also gives recommendations to both avoid spam and increase Internet security. He writes that "Everybody should care for his or her own Internet security. When computers are safe, at least the risk to spread viruses and worms can be held under control." He refers to seven basic tips found in the article "Seven Simple Computer Security Tips for Small Business and Home Computer Users".
The source that Merton's blog refers to - the article for the fall 2002 issue of Global Governance by Robert Hunter Wade is very interesting. He raises these questions: ""Would closing the digital divide be a new route to development for the developing world, or a new form of dependency?""
I think that the answer to both questions would be yes. The article says that "low-cost means of accessing the online world could enhance the chances that developing nations could travel along the digital highway instead of getting left behind." But it also says that "This innovation alone won't guarantee a level playing field on the Internet, and it may not work. But developing simpler, cheaper ways to get onto the online world could improve the chances that the digital divide can be narrowed."
It is important to keep in mind that the West is also depending on the developing world. Globalization has changed the world. It is not just about economics. It is also about cultural, political, military, social and environmental interdependence. But what globalization, or even capitalism, is also depends on who you are.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau on September 11, 2001, the world's population had passed 6,176,921,171, and The Population Reference Bureau projects that the world's population will be 7.818 billion in 2025, and 9.036 billiion in 2050. "At least 74 countries, including Nigeria, Iran, Ethiopia, Iraq, and Guatemala, will probably double their populations in 30 years; and in addition, thirtythree countries, twenty of them in Africa, still have a fertility rate of six children per woman; and that three billion women - the equivalent of the world's population in 1960 - will enter their childbearing years in the next few years."
Thomas Merrick, president of the Population Reference Bureau says that "For the more developed nations, now approaching population stabilization, it may be difficult to continue to be islands of prosperity in a sea of poverty in a world made smaller by modern transportation and communication."Furthermore, Hachten (2002) mentions that "Public opinon polls have long shown that many Americans are uninformed about international affairs. For example, a Gallup Poll found that half of all Americans did not know that the United States had to import petroleum to meet its needs."And "What worries experts is that ignorance and apathy about the world beyond America's borders may undermine this country's political, diplomatic, and economic influence."
Therefore, I believe that the West including America is indeed depending on the developing world.
(Source: Hachten, W. A., "The World News Prism - Global Media in an Era of Terrorism", sixth edition, Iowa State Press 2002.)
Merton's fears: "Is the digital divide really just an extension of the poverty divide? Is it just part of a much larger problem that also includes lack of literacy, education, health care and other basic needs around the world?"
I think that the digital divide is part of a greater context of interrelated problems: poverty, lack of literacy, population growth, lack of food, pollution, energy etc. But if companies and governments cooperate it is possible to create some of the above low-cost means - what I would call "technology innovations" to access the Internet. Professors at Kenan Flagler Business School - specialists in sustainability - agree that the solution to reduce poverty, is actually not to redistribute wealth, but the solution is to create more wealth and apply new and cleaner technologies in the developing countries. Most company strategies today sell products and services to elites and middleclass where the result is incremental innovation, BUT if these strategies would begin to focus more on the base of the pyramid (the developing countries) - these companies would be able to experience massive growth opportunities.
The reason why I think that it is important to narrow down the digital divide is that it IS part of the interrelated problems. Of course it is more important to get food every day than it is to have access to the Internet. Food is a basic need to survive, and access to the Internet is not a basic need. However, I do hope, and I believe that low-cost means of access to the Internet can reduce some of the interrelated problems including lack of food.
"Optimizing one element in isolation pessimizes the whole system" - Hawken, Lovis, and Lovins, Natural Capitalism, 1999.
I really enjoyed reading Sandy's weblog on The Space Cadet. I was amazed with the design of her weblog, and her articles and opinions are interesting to read.
I agree with her that spam is very annoying and time consuming. I was not aware that it could have such a great impact as indicated in her "Each One Teach One (EOTO) ** Spam **" project e.g. Why is spam bad? Now that I know of it, I am even more scared of the impact of spam. I only have two email accounts - one from UNC, Chapel Hill and one from my home university, and the reason for this is that I most times do not get all these annoying emails through these two accounts. Last year, I skipped my Yahoo! account because my account was a serious spam target, and I was not able to control it. However, lately I now and then get spam even on these two accounts.
Wolfgang's Blog also gives recommendations to both avoid spam and increase Internet security. He writes that "Everybody should care for his or her own Internet security. When computers are safe, at least the risk to spread viruses and worms can be held under control." He refers to seven basic tips found in the article "Seven Simple Computer Security Tips for Small Business and Home Computer Users".
The source that Merton's blog refers to - the article for the fall 2002 issue of Global Governance by Robert Hunter Wade is very interesting. He raises these questions: ""Would closing the digital divide be a new route to development for the developing world, or a new form of dependency?""
I think that the answer to both questions would be yes. The article says that "low-cost means of accessing the online world could enhance the chances that developing nations could travel along the digital highway instead of getting left behind." But it also says that "This innovation alone won't guarantee a level playing field on the Internet, and it may not work. But developing simpler, cheaper ways to get onto the online world could improve the chances that the digital divide can be narrowed."
It is important to keep in mind that the West is also depending on the developing world. Globalization has changed the world. It is not just about economics. It is also about cultural, political, military, social and environmental interdependence. But what globalization, or even capitalism, is also depends on who you are.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau on September 11, 2001, the world's population had passed 6,176,921,171, and The Population Reference Bureau projects that the world's population will be 7.818 billion in 2025, and 9.036 billiion in 2050. "At least 74 countries, including Nigeria, Iran, Ethiopia, Iraq, and Guatemala, will probably double their populations in 30 years; and in addition, thirtythree countries, twenty of them in Africa, still have a fertility rate of six children per woman; and that three billion women - the equivalent of the world's population in 1960 - will enter their childbearing years in the next few years."
Thomas Merrick, president of the Population Reference Bureau says that "For the more developed nations, now approaching population stabilization, it may be difficult to continue to be islands of prosperity in a sea of poverty in a world made smaller by modern transportation and communication."Furthermore, Hachten (2002) mentions that "Public opinon polls have long shown that many Americans are uninformed about international affairs. For example, a Gallup Poll found that half of all Americans did not know that the United States had to import petroleum to meet its needs."And "What worries experts is that ignorance and apathy about the world beyond America's borders may undermine this country's political, diplomatic, and economic influence."
Therefore, I believe that the West including America is indeed depending on the developing world.
(Source: Hachten, W. A., "The World News Prism - Global Media in an Era of Terrorism", sixth edition, Iowa State Press 2002.)
Merton's fears: "Is the digital divide really just an extension of the poverty divide? Is it just part of a much larger problem that also includes lack of literacy, education, health care and other basic needs around the world?"
I think that the digital divide is part of a greater context of interrelated problems: poverty, lack of literacy, population growth, lack of food, pollution, energy etc. But if companies and governments cooperate it is possible to create some of the above low-cost means - what I would call "technology innovations" to access the Internet. Professors at Kenan Flagler Business School - specialists in sustainability - agree that the solution to reduce poverty, is actually not to redistribute wealth, but the solution is to create more wealth and apply new and cleaner technologies in the developing countries. Most company strategies today sell products and services to elites and middleclass where the result is incremental innovation, BUT if these strategies would begin to focus more on the base of the pyramid (the developing countries) - these companies would be able to experience massive growth opportunities.
The reason why I think that it is important to narrow down the digital divide is that it IS part of the interrelated problems. Of course it is more important to get food every day than it is to have access to the Internet. Food is a basic need to survive, and access to the Internet is not a basic need. However, I do hope, and I believe that low-cost means of access to the Internet can reduce some of the interrelated problems including lack of food.
"Optimizing one element in isolation pessimizes the whole system" - Hawken, Lovis, and Lovins, Natural Capitalism, 1999.
Sunday, November 02, 2003
Assignment A - Each One Teach One - The Digital Divide
Essay: The Digital Divide
A global communication technology issue that really concerns me is the gap between individuals and societies that have the resources to participate in the information era and those that do not. It exists both within countries and regions and between countries, and people usually call it the digital divide.
Poor countries, where about 80 percent of the world’s people live, have only about 5 percent of the computers of the Internet, according to the World Bank. Other kinds of wireless technology such as mobile phones have so far had a far greater impact on people’s lives in developing countries than the Internet. (Source: Hatchen, William A., 2002, page 94.) It is time to reach out for new opportunities.
The infrastructure of a country, policies and education are all necessary for marginalized communities to participate in the information age. Economic costs, English language barrier, and a lacking technological support are all barriers for developing countries using the Internet and computers. As an example World Economic Forum, 2002 mentioned that just over 50 percent of the world’s Internet users are native English speakers, however, about 76 percent of all Web sites are in English.
The growing gap is a problem because information and communications technology such as the Internet can improve both economic and social development in the developing countries. Without the exchange of information with the Western world, the gap will continue to grow. As United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, is also saying: “One of the hallmarks of the information society - openness - is a crucial ingredient of democracy and good governance. Information and knowledge are also at the heart of efforts to strengthen tolerance, mutual understanding and respect for diversity.”
It is important that the information technology industry begins to focus more on the bottom of the pyramid where 80 percent of the world's population is situated. Today, some corporations have taken steps to begin to fully imbed the Triple Bottom Line (social, economic and environmental concerns) in their core strategies, but while a number of information technology companies do support social causes or strive to do this, most of these activities are happening in the Western world. If the digital divide is to be minimized, it is essential that these companies begin to focus more on the poor countries in the world. Governments may have courage, but companies have money.
(Source: Hatchen, William A., “The World News Prism - Global Media in an Era of Terrorism”, sixth edition, Iowa State Press, 2002, page 94.)
My Five Biggest Fears about the Digital Divide:
1. Developing countries, individuals and some social groups can be excluded from the economy through the digital divide. Already existing inequalities makes it impossible for them to use the Internet and PCs. As the Internet has become more important for getting a job and searching for information for example especially in the Western world, these inequalities may even increase.
2. The contrasts between those who are online and those who are not, is frightening in developing countries. It is normal that people in cities with more education and a higher income are more likely to have Internet access, thus, they are more connected to the world.
3. It scars me that the digital divide is growing between the developed and the developing countries. Now that we are aware of it, we should do something about it.
4. Media communication is not necessarily creating social change and minimizing if not diminishing the digital divide. As an example only a few major daily newspapers in America where many of the information technology companies are based, are still reporting the developing world such as the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times. Many fail to provide needed context and follow-up which stories as genocide, poverty and civil wars require for public understanding. Without this context it is also very difficult to minimize the digital divide. Poorer nations are particularly dependent on the Western media to find out about themselves because their system is more often authoritarian. I think that the world’s more pressing concerns can only be solved through multinational and global cooperation and especially more awareness among Western countries.
5. Why is it that there are so many people in the Western world that are self-absorbed and ignorant of these problems? That really scares me! Do we really have enough in ourselves?!
Six Web Resources that Address the Digital Divide:
1. The Digital Divide Network
This web resource examines the digital divide from different perspectives with new information on the topic. There is also a forum where people interested in the topic can share their experiences with people from other countries, and it looks at different causes and effects of the digital divide such as accessibility, literacy and education, and economic development.
2. CyberAtlas
This web resource is a good guide to online facts on the digital divide. It does not only have information on the digital divide, but it came up with a lot of interesting articles on the topic when I searched for further information.
3. The World Economic Forum
On the website of the World Economic Forum there is a good section on the Global Digital Divide which is a global partnership between governments and private companies to bridge the digital divide.
4. The World Summit on the Information Society
This website provides information on The World Summit on the Information Society. The first phase will take place in Geneva in December 2003, and it is to adopt a declaration of principles and a plan of action for implementation by governments, institutions and all sectors of civil society to deal with the new challenges of the information age and identify ways to help close the digital divide. In the second phase, which will take place in Tunis 2005 the theme is to be development. It will be interesting to see if this summit will be more that just talks as is unfortunately sometimes the case with these events, but it is probably worthwhile to check out this web-site frequently.
5. Woojung’s Blog – Will The Internet Foster Democracy?
This weblog has a lot of interesting opinions on the digital divide, and many good links to relevant web-sites and articles about the topic. I am looking forward to reading Woojung's research paper on “The Internet and democracy".
6. Washington State University – Center to Bridge the Digital Divide
This is a web-site for the Center to Bridge the Digital Divide at Washington State University in Microsoft’s home city. It gives the reader contact information to people with a great knowledge of the topic, and it offers links to articles, web-sites and PowerPoint presentations with more information on the digital divide.
My Recommendations for Solutions that will Minimize the Digital Divide:
1. More communication from the Western press on the digital divide and other problems in developing countries to the public. If people do not get any information on the problem, they cannot become aware of it, and I cannot see how it can be possible to minimize or in best case combat the digital divide without this awareness.
2. The Internet cannot spread spontaneously. It is part of a greater context of interrelated problems such as poverty, population, food, pollution, energy, military expenditure, and the world monetary system. Foreign aid and multilateral programs give too little emphasis on bridging the digital divide, and I recommend companies and governments to spend more resources to making Internet access affordable for the world’s poor.
3. Mutual cooperation between governments and companies is essential if we want to give developing countries better opportunities of access to the Internet and other global technologies.
Essay: The Digital Divide
A global communication technology issue that really concerns me is the gap between individuals and societies that have the resources to participate in the information era and those that do not. It exists both within countries and regions and between countries, and people usually call it the digital divide.
Poor countries, where about 80 percent of the world’s people live, have only about 5 percent of the computers of the Internet, according to the World Bank. Other kinds of wireless technology such as mobile phones have so far had a far greater impact on people’s lives in developing countries than the Internet. (Source: Hatchen, William A., 2002, page 94.) It is time to reach out for new opportunities.
The infrastructure of a country, policies and education are all necessary for marginalized communities to participate in the information age. Economic costs, English language barrier, and a lacking technological support are all barriers for developing countries using the Internet and computers. As an example World Economic Forum, 2002 mentioned that just over 50 percent of the world’s Internet users are native English speakers, however, about 76 percent of all Web sites are in English.
The growing gap is a problem because information and communications technology such as the Internet can improve both economic and social development in the developing countries. Without the exchange of information with the Western world, the gap will continue to grow. As United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, is also saying: “One of the hallmarks of the information society - openness - is a crucial ingredient of democracy and good governance. Information and knowledge are also at the heart of efforts to strengthen tolerance, mutual understanding and respect for diversity.”
It is important that the information technology industry begins to focus more on the bottom of the pyramid where 80 percent of the world's population is situated. Today, some corporations have taken steps to begin to fully imbed the Triple Bottom Line (social, economic and environmental concerns) in their core strategies, but while a number of information technology companies do support social causes or strive to do this, most of these activities are happening in the Western world. If the digital divide is to be minimized, it is essential that these companies begin to focus more on the poor countries in the world. Governments may have courage, but companies have money.
(Source: Hatchen, William A., “The World News Prism - Global Media in an Era of Terrorism”, sixth edition, Iowa State Press, 2002, page 94.)
My Five Biggest Fears about the Digital Divide:
1. Developing countries, individuals and some social groups can be excluded from the economy through the digital divide. Already existing inequalities makes it impossible for them to use the Internet and PCs. As the Internet has become more important for getting a job and searching for information for example especially in the Western world, these inequalities may even increase.
2. The contrasts between those who are online and those who are not, is frightening in developing countries. It is normal that people in cities with more education and a higher income are more likely to have Internet access, thus, they are more connected to the world.
3. It scars me that the digital divide is growing between the developed and the developing countries. Now that we are aware of it, we should do something about it.
4. Media communication is not necessarily creating social change and minimizing if not diminishing the digital divide. As an example only a few major daily newspapers in America where many of the information technology companies are based, are still reporting the developing world such as the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times. Many fail to provide needed context and follow-up which stories as genocide, poverty and civil wars require for public understanding. Without this context it is also very difficult to minimize the digital divide. Poorer nations are particularly dependent on the Western media to find out about themselves because their system is more often authoritarian. I think that the world’s more pressing concerns can only be solved through multinational and global cooperation and especially more awareness among Western countries.
5. Why is it that there are so many people in the Western world that are self-absorbed and ignorant of these problems? That really scares me! Do we really have enough in ourselves?!
Six Web Resources that Address the Digital Divide:
1. The Digital Divide Network
This web resource examines the digital divide from different perspectives with new information on the topic. There is also a forum where people interested in the topic can share their experiences with people from other countries, and it looks at different causes and effects of the digital divide such as accessibility, literacy and education, and economic development.
2. CyberAtlas
This web resource is a good guide to online facts on the digital divide. It does not only have information on the digital divide, but it came up with a lot of interesting articles on the topic when I searched for further information.
3. The World Economic Forum
On the website of the World Economic Forum there is a good section on the Global Digital Divide which is a global partnership between governments and private companies to bridge the digital divide.
4. The World Summit on the Information Society
This website provides information on The World Summit on the Information Society. The first phase will take place in Geneva in December 2003, and it is to adopt a declaration of principles and a plan of action for implementation by governments, institutions and all sectors of civil society to deal with the new challenges of the information age and identify ways to help close the digital divide. In the second phase, which will take place in Tunis 2005 the theme is to be development. It will be interesting to see if this summit will be more that just talks as is unfortunately sometimes the case with these events, but it is probably worthwhile to check out this web-site frequently.
5. Woojung’s Blog – Will The Internet Foster Democracy?
This weblog has a lot of interesting opinions on the digital divide, and many good links to relevant web-sites and articles about the topic. I am looking forward to reading Woojung's research paper on “The Internet and democracy".
6. Washington State University – Center to Bridge the Digital Divide
This is a web-site for the Center to Bridge the Digital Divide at Washington State University in Microsoft’s home city. It gives the reader contact information to people with a great knowledge of the topic, and it offers links to articles, web-sites and PowerPoint presentations with more information on the digital divide.
My Recommendations for Solutions that will Minimize the Digital Divide:
1. More communication from the Western press on the digital divide and other problems in developing countries to the public. If people do not get any information on the problem, they cannot become aware of it, and I cannot see how it can be possible to minimize or in best case combat the digital divide without this awareness.
2. The Internet cannot spread spontaneously. It is part of a greater context of interrelated problems such as poverty, population, food, pollution, energy, military expenditure, and the world monetary system. Foreign aid and multilateral programs give too little emphasis on bridging the digital divide, and I recommend companies and governments to spend more resources to making Internet access affordable for the world’s poor.
3. Mutual cooperation between governments and companies is essential if we want to give developing countries better opportunities of access to the Internet and other global technologies.
Friday, October 17, 2003
Assignment D
I found Steven's blog on "the gay dilemma in the christian church" very interesting. I like the idea that he wants to encourage dialogue among Christian thinkers on the subject of homosexuality.
I just read that it is marriage protection week in America this week, and that some people are concerned that this protection is in grave danger because of homosexual activists who are calling for same-sex unions. What do you think about this? (Source: BBC)
Elizabeth Nielsen's weblog on "Media and Wartime" appeals to me, because I am taking a course at UNC on "Ethics and Professional Problems" where we discuss some of these issues. It is questioned what journalists should report, and what photos should be shown from a war zone. What obligation do journalist have to the victims? Is it fair to lie in some circumstances to tell the public the truth? Should one act for the greatest good for the greatest number? Tough issues!
Woojung's blog on "The Internet and democracy" is one that I will be looking forward to reading as well. Until now I am not convinced that the Internet generally speaking increases democracy. Radio and cell phones have helped some communities in Africa, but they are also less expensive items. However, I am looking forward to reading more about the opportunities this online world can offer developing countries.
I found Steven's blog on "the gay dilemma in the christian church" very interesting. I like the idea that he wants to encourage dialogue among Christian thinkers on the subject of homosexuality.
I just read that it is marriage protection week in America this week, and that some people are concerned that this protection is in grave danger because of homosexual activists who are calling for same-sex unions. What do you think about this? (Source: BBC)
Elizabeth Nielsen's weblog on "Media and Wartime" appeals to me, because I am taking a course at UNC on "Ethics and Professional Problems" where we discuss some of these issues. It is questioned what journalists should report, and what photos should be shown from a war zone. What obligation do journalist have to the victims? Is it fair to lie in some circumstances to tell the public the truth? Should one act for the greatest good for the greatest number? Tough issues!
Woojung's blog on "The Internet and democracy" is one that I will be looking forward to reading as well. Until now I am not convinced that the Internet generally speaking increases democracy. Radio and cell phones have helped some communities in Africa, but they are also less expensive items. However, I am looking forward to reading more about the opportunities this online world can offer developing countries.
Assignment C
How does technology ease or make difficult the dissemination of information?
What I have found is that it is much more difficult to know if you can rely on the information on the Internet, but on the other hand I have also found that advanced search engines on the Internet can help me to find what I am looking for very quickly. But if I do not know exactly what I am looking for, I sometimes find it easier to scroll through a lot of books to get an overview of my research area, before I start searching on the Internet for more information. Throgh this course we learn that we need to use sources in order to be reliable sources ourselves, but I assume that a lot of people who create their own weblogs, they do not consider this issue.
What problems or issues have you encountered in reading blogrolls on various weblogs?
First of all it really took a while, before I found some weblogs that I liked. After I first found one that I liked, I did find some others that I liked through the blogroll. However, until know those that I have liked were generally speaking more like reading an open diary and some of them also fiction, whereas I would normally use the Internet for non-fiction issues.
What issues have you encountered in incorporating a blogroll and web filtering into your own weblog?
I honestly found it quite difficult to create a blogroll. I tried to create my blog using Blogger, but after an hour I was so frustrated that I turned back to the "oldfashinoned way", and I tried to follow the instructions on the Blackboard. However, there is a lot of the probably "simple things" that I still do not understand, so my weblog does not look too good at the moment, but I will try to work on that, when I have more time.
How does technology ease or make difficult the dissemination of information?
What I have found is that it is much more difficult to know if you can rely on the information on the Internet, but on the other hand I have also found that advanced search engines on the Internet can help me to find what I am looking for very quickly. But if I do not know exactly what I am looking for, I sometimes find it easier to scroll through a lot of books to get an overview of my research area, before I start searching on the Internet for more information. Throgh this course we learn that we need to use sources in order to be reliable sources ourselves, but I assume that a lot of people who create their own weblogs, they do not consider this issue.
What problems or issues have you encountered in reading blogrolls on various weblogs?
First of all it really took a while, before I found some weblogs that I liked. After I first found one that I liked, I did find some others that I liked through the blogroll. However, until know those that I have liked were generally speaking more like reading an open diary and some of them also fiction, whereas I would normally use the Internet for non-fiction issues.
What issues have you encountered in incorporating a blogroll and web filtering into your own weblog?
I honestly found it quite difficult to create a blogroll. I tried to create my blog using Blogger, but after an hour I was so frustrated that I turned back to the "oldfashinoned way", and I tried to follow the instructions on the Blackboard. However, there is a lot of the probably "simple things" that I still do not understand, so my weblog does not look too good at the moment, but I will try to work on that, when I have more time.
Thursday, October 16, 2003
Assignment B
Five good websites for my research paper:
Scorecard (PollutionWatch)
Scorecard is a source for free and accessible local environmental information.
(Source: http://www.scorecard.org/about/about.tcl - downloaded 16 October 2003)
This website is very interesting. You can type in the zip code for the area you live in in America and see how clean or dirty your county is. What I also find very interesting about the website is that you can see who is polluting!
Example:
Did you know that Durham county is ranked among the dirtiest/worst 10% of all counties in the US in terms of the number of people living in areas where cancer risk from hazardous air pollutants exceeds 1 in 10,000? (Source: EPA)
Global Reporting Initiative
"The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is a multi-stakeholder process and independent institution whose mission is to develop and disseminate globally applicable Sustainability Reporting Guidelines." (Source: http://www.globalreporting.org/about/brief.asp - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because there is not too much information on the mainpage, and you have good opportunities of finding your way around through the headlines. It also has a good sitemap, and the colors of the website are not disturbing.
The Nature Conservancy
"The Nature Conservancy mission is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive." (Source: http://nature.org/aboutus/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
I like the beautiful photos on the mainpage, and it is easy to find your way around the website.
World Business Council for
Sustainable Development
"The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) is a coalition of 165 international companies united by a shared commitment to sustainable development via the three pillars of economic growth, ecological balance and social progress." (Source: http://www.wbcsd.org/templates/TemplateWBCSD1/layout.asp?type=p&MenuId=NjA&doOpen=1&ClickMenu=LeftMenu - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because the key activities of the organization are easy to identify and to find. It appeals to me visually as well, and there is, as there is with all good websites, a search engine.
World Economic Forum
"The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an independent organization committed to improving the state of the world. WEF embraces new challenges by developing initiatives which support the core principles and values, which are to provide a collaborative framework for world leaders to address global issues; to promote entrepreneurship in the global public interest; and to maintain a non-partisan and independent position." (Source: http://www.weforum.org/site/homepublic.nsf/Content/About+the+Forum+Subhome - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because it gives the reader valuable global information on Corporate Social Responsibility. There is a search engine, and there is also a FAQ's section and a good sitemap.
Five bad websites for my research paper:
nature
This website provides personal subscribers and site license users with full access to Nature's current and archived content.(Source:http://www.nature.com/nature/info/otherusers.html - downloaded 16 October 2003).
This website is not good, because there is too much information on the mainpage, and there is no mission statement. Furthermore, I also do not like all the ads on the page. If I would like to buy another product, I would be on another website.
UNICORN
"UNICORN is a trade union anti-corruption network. Its overall mission is to mobilise workers to share information and coordinate action to combat international corruption." (Source: http://www.psiru.org/corruption/indexnew.asp - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website does not have an interesting visual appeal to me - there are no pictures. I also could not find any search engine.
Good Money
"A web page for all those who are interested in socially and environmentally responsible investing (SRI), consuming (SRC) and business practices (CSR)." (Source: http://www.goodmoney.com/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
I do not like this webpage, because there is no clear mission statement, and some of the information is presented in a way so it does not look like they are dealing with a serious cause. Furthermore, you have to scroll down the page a lot to find more information.
Development Studies Association
"The Development Studies Association (DSA) aims to promote the advancement of knowledge on international development; to disseminate information on development research and training; and to encourage interdisclipinary exchange and cooperation." (Source: http://www.devstud.org.uk/about.htm - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website has no search engine, as far as I can see, which makes it difficutlt to find what you are looking for.
Environics International
"Environics International Ltd. is the largest provider of multi-client public opinion research in the world, specializing in strategic analysis of global issues, including the social, ethical, environmental and economic impacts on corporations and their stakeholders." (Source: http://www.environicsinternational.com/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website does almost not have any information on the mainpage which means that it takes longer time to find what you are looking for.
Five good websites for my research paper:
Scorecard (PollutionWatch)
Scorecard is a source for free and accessible local environmental information.
(Source: http://www.scorecard.org/about/about.tcl - downloaded 16 October 2003)
This website is very interesting. You can type in the zip code for the area you live in in America and see how clean or dirty your county is. What I also find very interesting about the website is that you can see who is polluting!
Example:
Did you know that Durham county is ranked among the dirtiest/worst 10% of all counties in the US in terms of the number of people living in areas where cancer risk from hazardous air pollutants exceeds 1 in 10,000? (Source: EPA)
Global Reporting Initiative
"The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is a multi-stakeholder process and independent institution whose mission is to develop and disseminate globally applicable Sustainability Reporting Guidelines." (Source: http://www.globalreporting.org/about/brief.asp - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because there is not too much information on the mainpage, and you have good opportunities of finding your way around through the headlines. It also has a good sitemap, and the colors of the website are not disturbing.
The Nature Conservancy
"The Nature Conservancy mission is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive." (Source: http://nature.org/aboutus/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
I like the beautiful photos on the mainpage, and it is easy to find your way around the website.
World Business Council for
Sustainable Development
"The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) is a coalition of 165 international companies united by a shared commitment to sustainable development via the three pillars of economic growth, ecological balance and social progress." (Source: http://www.wbcsd.org/templates/TemplateWBCSD1/layout.asp?type=p&MenuId=NjA&doOpen=1&ClickMenu=LeftMenu - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because the key activities of the organization are easy to identify and to find. It appeals to me visually as well, and there is, as there is with all good websites, a search engine.
World Economic Forum
"The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an independent organization committed to improving the state of the world. WEF embraces new challenges by developing initiatives which support the core principles and values, which are to provide a collaborative framework for world leaders to address global issues; to promote entrepreneurship in the global public interest; and to maintain a non-partisan and independent position." (Source: http://www.weforum.org/site/homepublic.nsf/Content/About+the+Forum+Subhome - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website is good, because it gives the reader valuable global information on Corporate Social Responsibility. There is a search engine, and there is also a FAQ's section and a good sitemap.
Five bad websites for my research paper:
nature
This website provides personal subscribers and site license users with full access to Nature's current and archived content.(Source:http://www.nature.com/nature/info/otherusers.html - downloaded 16 October 2003).
This website is not good, because there is too much information on the mainpage, and there is no mission statement. Furthermore, I also do not like all the ads on the page. If I would like to buy another product, I would be on another website.
UNICORN
"UNICORN is a trade union anti-corruption network. Its overall mission is to mobilise workers to share information and coordinate action to combat international corruption." (Source: http://www.psiru.org/corruption/indexnew.asp - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website does not have an interesting visual appeal to me - there are no pictures. I also could not find any search engine.
Good Money
"A web page for all those who are interested in socially and environmentally responsible investing (SRI), consuming (SRC) and business practices (CSR)." (Source: http://www.goodmoney.com/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
I do not like this webpage, because there is no clear mission statement, and some of the information is presented in a way so it does not look like they are dealing with a serious cause. Furthermore, you have to scroll down the page a lot to find more information.
Development Studies Association
"The Development Studies Association (DSA) aims to promote the advancement of knowledge on international development; to disseminate information on development research and training; and to encourage interdisclipinary exchange and cooperation." (Source: http://www.devstud.org.uk/about.htm - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website has no search engine, as far as I can see, which makes it difficutlt to find what you are looking for.
Environics International
"Environics International Ltd. is the largest provider of multi-client public opinion research in the world, specializing in strategic analysis of global issues, including the social, ethical, environmental and economic impacts on corporations and their stakeholders." (Source: http://www.environicsinternational.com/ - downloaded 17 October 2003)
This website does almost not have any information on the mainpage which means that it takes longer time to find what you are looking for.
Monday, September 22, 2003
Research paper
I believe that the Western world is obligated to carry the responsibility for a safe and healthy environment, because we are more privileged than the rest of the world. The terrorist attacks on September 11 made it clear to more people and especially Americans that we are all interconnected through globalization. Poverty and exploitation in one part of the world will not stay isolated geographically. Today, some companies are also starting to realize that instead of approaching social and environmental issues as too costly or a luxury, it is actually necessary to embed these elements into a company's core strategies to create a world that is worth living in for the next many generations. The gap between rich and poor people is still widening, and it is essential that we do something about. As it is right now, it is better to get cancer, than prevent us from getting it. Companies make big money on that.
Now that words spread quickly through different kinds of communication technologies such as television, mobile phone, radio and the Internet, a company's reputation is more sensitive and unwanted publicity about unethical activities can seriously damage the company. Therefore companies that are effectively managing these issues are likely to me more sustainable, today and in the future. (Watson, 2002, pp. 54-61)
My experiences with CSR is that companies highly prioritize the communication of the field and tell all the stakeholders that they are paying attention to other issues than economic profits, however, there is little agreement on what it means to be a sustainable company, and specifically what the definition of CSR is. Therefore, my first research question will start with some background information regarding the concept of CSR, and I will present various reasons to the birth of the phenomenon. Second, I will discuss the growing importance of reporting and communication on CSR for multinational companies in the United States and give some company examples. Reporting within the field of CSR provides information to help evaluate for example the reputation of the company, and it gives information beyond financial results that stakeholders use to make decisions. Sustainability reporting also covers the Triple Bottom Line which has quickly evolved from an ambitious concept to a widely adopted practice. Furthermore, communication, both internally and externally about CSR is essential because it for example gives employees instructions to accomplish the mission statement of the company, and the external communication enables the company to interact with people both outside and inside (employees are also stakeholders) the company. Third, I will discuss the obstacles and the opportunities these companies are facing when they communicate on CSR. Houck and Williams (1996) mention that since there is no commonly accepted definition of what CSR means, it is hard to apply standards to determine if a company is socially responsible. A company can promote itself as socially responsible if it takes environmental issues into consideration, recycles, and keeps pollution rate to a minimum, and these matters can be promoted even if the company has practiced sexual or racial discrimination, and even if the company operates at the limits of legality. However, if a company understands to take these matters into consideration when it communicates what it is doing, the chances of a better corporate reputation are definitely there.
Here are my research questions:
What does the concept Corporate Social Responsibility mean?
Why has it become important for multinational companies in the United States to report and communicate about Corporate Social Responsibility?
What kind of obstacles and opportunities do reporting and communication about Corporate Social Responsibility give multinational companies in the United States?
Literature list
Watson, T., Osborne-Brown, S., Longhurst, M., "Issues Negotiation - Investing in Stakeholders", Corporate Communications: An International Journal, volume 7, no. 1, 2002, pp. 54-61.
Houck, W.J., Williams, F.O., "Is the good corporation dead? Social responsibility in a global economy", London: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 1996.
Why is my research topic important?
I believe that my research topic is important because it is essential that people get a common understanding on what CSR is if it is taken seriously by a company. It is important that the public learn to distinguish between "the good and the bad guys", so those companies who are really doing a good job will benefit even more from it. Not all companies walk the way that they talk, and if they do not do this, we really need to punish them, because this is not good for our society. The population rate is growing, and things look bad now, but wait and se how the world will be looking like in 50 years! According to a journal I read on CSR only about 5 percent of the companies today are actually taking CSR seriously! (I will find the source and insert it here next week). For a lot of companies CSR seem to be another PR-innovation.
Key words
"greenwashing" - stakeholder management - globalization - media influence - triple bottom line - CSR - sustainable development - NGOs - corporate communication - sustainability reporting
Preliminary list of websites for research
Title: CSR Europe
Web address: http://www.csreurope.org
Description: This website provides information on how companies can achieve profitability sustainable growth and human progress by placing corporate social responsibility in the mainstream of business practice. The website contains a very useful database where you can look for all kinds of info on CSR: http://www.csreurope.org/databank/default.asp
Title: CSRwire
Web address: http://www.csrwire.com
Description: This website gives the latest news on CRS issues, and it has a good database where you can make company search, sector search, and CSR issue search. Furthermore, it gives links to other CSR web resources which is excellent since there is also a short description of them. Very useful if there is specific information, you are looking for:
http://www.csrwire.com/resources.cgi
Title: BSR Business for Social Responsibility
Web address: http://www.bsr.org
Description: BSR’s website provides information, tools, training and advisory services to make corporate social responsibility an integral part of business operations and strategies. Especially useful is the “BSR’s Issue Briefs� that provides summary information on the spectrum of CSR issues. The issues are grouped into topic areas such as business ethics, environment, human rights etc. Here is the link: http://www.bsr.org/BSRResources/IssueBriefsList.cfm?area=all
Title: The International Business Leaders Forum
Web address: http://www.iblf.org
Description: The International Business Leaders Forum is an international educational charity that promotes responsible business practices internationally that benefit business and society. The website contains a good search engine (http://www.iblf.org/csr/search.jsp), and a site map for CSR as well (http://www.iblf.org/csr/CSRWebAssist.nsf/sitemap).
Title: GreenChoices
Web address: http://www.greenchoices.com
Description: The website of GreenChoices is a guide to find ways to recycle different kinds of products and make a cleaner environment. You can click on a category such as transportation, and it will suggest you for example an environmental guide to a car.
I believe that the Western world is obligated to carry the responsibility for a safe and healthy environment, because we are more privileged than the rest of the world. The terrorist attacks on September 11 made it clear to more people and especially Americans that we are all interconnected through globalization. Poverty and exploitation in one part of the world will not stay isolated geographically. Today, some companies are also starting to realize that instead of approaching social and environmental issues as too costly or a luxury, it is actually necessary to embed these elements into a company's core strategies to create a world that is worth living in for the next many generations. The gap between rich and poor people is still widening, and it is essential that we do something about. As it is right now, it is better to get cancer, than prevent us from getting it. Companies make big money on that.
Now that words spread quickly through different kinds of communication technologies such as television, mobile phone, radio and the Internet, a company's reputation is more sensitive and unwanted publicity about unethical activities can seriously damage the company. Therefore companies that are effectively managing these issues are likely to me more sustainable, today and in the future. (Watson, 2002, pp. 54-61)
My experiences with CSR is that companies highly prioritize the communication of the field and tell all the stakeholders that they are paying attention to other issues than economic profits, however, there is little agreement on what it means to be a sustainable company, and specifically what the definition of CSR is. Therefore, my first research question will start with some background information regarding the concept of CSR, and I will present various reasons to the birth of the phenomenon. Second, I will discuss the growing importance of reporting and communication on CSR for multinational companies in the United States and give some company examples. Reporting within the field of CSR provides information to help evaluate for example the reputation of the company, and it gives information beyond financial results that stakeholders use to make decisions. Sustainability reporting also covers the Triple Bottom Line which has quickly evolved from an ambitious concept to a widely adopted practice. Furthermore, communication, both internally and externally about CSR is essential because it for example gives employees instructions to accomplish the mission statement of the company, and the external communication enables the company to interact with people both outside and inside (employees are also stakeholders) the company. Third, I will discuss the obstacles and the opportunities these companies are facing when they communicate on CSR. Houck and Williams (1996) mention that since there is no commonly accepted definition of what CSR means, it is hard to apply standards to determine if a company is socially responsible. A company can promote itself as socially responsible if it takes environmental issues into consideration, recycles, and keeps pollution rate to a minimum, and these matters can be promoted even if the company has practiced sexual or racial discrimination, and even if the company operates at the limits of legality. However, if a company understands to take these matters into consideration when it communicates what it is doing, the chances of a better corporate reputation are definitely there.
Here are my research questions:
What does the concept Corporate Social Responsibility mean?
Why has it become important for multinational companies in the United States to report and communicate about Corporate Social Responsibility?
What kind of obstacles and opportunities do reporting and communication about Corporate Social Responsibility give multinational companies in the United States?
Literature list
Watson, T., Osborne-Brown, S., Longhurst, M., "Issues Negotiation - Investing in Stakeholders", Corporate Communications: An International Journal, volume 7, no. 1, 2002, pp. 54-61.
Houck, W.J., Williams, F.O., "Is the good corporation dead? Social responsibility in a global economy", London: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 1996.
Why is my research topic important?
I believe that my research topic is important because it is essential that people get a common understanding on what CSR is if it is taken seriously by a company. It is important that the public learn to distinguish between "the good and the bad guys", so those companies who are really doing a good job will benefit even more from it. Not all companies walk the way that they talk, and if they do not do this, we really need to punish them, because this is not good for our society. The population rate is growing, and things look bad now, but wait and se how the world will be looking like in 50 years! According to a journal I read on CSR only about 5 percent of the companies today are actually taking CSR seriously! (I will find the source and insert it here next week). For a lot of companies CSR seem to be another PR-innovation.
Key words
"greenwashing" - stakeholder management - globalization - media influence - triple bottom line - CSR - sustainable development - NGOs - corporate communication - sustainability reporting
Preliminary list of websites for research
Title: CSR Europe
Web address: http://www.csreurope.org
Description: This website provides information on how companies can achieve profitability sustainable growth and human progress by placing corporate social responsibility in the mainstream of business practice. The website contains a very useful database where you can look for all kinds of info on CSR: http://www.csreurope.org/databank/default.asp
Title: CSRwire
Web address: http://www.csrwire.com
Description: This website gives the latest news on CRS issues, and it has a good database where you can make company search, sector search, and CSR issue search. Furthermore, it gives links to other CSR web resources which is excellent since there is also a short description of them. Very useful if there is specific information, you are looking for:
http://www.csrwire.com/resources.cgi
Title: BSR Business for Social Responsibility
Web address: http://www.bsr.org
Description: BSR’s website provides information, tools, training and advisory services to make corporate social responsibility an integral part of business operations and strategies. Especially useful is the “BSR’s Issue Briefs� that provides summary information on the spectrum of CSR issues. The issues are grouped into topic areas such as business ethics, environment, human rights etc. Here is the link: http://www.bsr.org/BSRResources/IssueBriefsList.cfm?area=all
Title: The International Business Leaders Forum
Web address: http://www.iblf.org
Description: The International Business Leaders Forum is an international educational charity that promotes responsible business practices internationally that benefit business and society. The website contains a good search engine (http://www.iblf.org/csr/search.jsp), and a site map for CSR as well (http://www.iblf.org/csr/CSRWebAssist.nsf/sitemap).
Title: GreenChoices
Web address: http://www.greenchoices.com
Description: The website of GreenChoices is a guide to find ways to recycle different kinds of products and make a cleaner environment. You can click on a category such as transportation, and it will suggest you for example an environmental guide to a car.
