The Many Benefits of Learning Piano Chord Theory

Posted on December 8, 2019 by admin

Chances are if you’ve ever taken piano lessons, you probably spent at least a little bit of time on piano chords. But learning the names of a few basic chords and actually understanding chord theory are two different things. And while it’s possible to learn to play the piano without learning chords, there are several benefits to learning theory.

Many piano students complain that music theory is too hard to understand. They quickly give up in favor of simply playing piano by reading a score of written music. Those who take the time to get the basis of chord theory find that chordal theory helps them in several ways.

Learning chord-based theory is something like learning math. You can simply memorize the fact that 2 + 2 = 4, and that may get you by for a few years in school. Or, you can learn and understand why 2 + 2 = 4. Once you do, you’ll be able to succeed in math when the formulas become much too hard to simply memorize and regurgitate. The same is true of chord theory. It’s one thing to memorize a chord chart. If you don’t understand how chords work, your skills won’t get you very much further than basic piano playing.

One of the most obvious benefits of learning chords is that you will soon develop the skill of playing piano by ear. Have you every watched a band play, such as those on late-night TV talk shows? The pianists seem to be able to pick up any song, off the cuff, and begin playing it without the advantage of sheet music or having practiced. That’s music theory at work. There are few things more thrilling than to sit down at a piano, impromptu, and provide accompaniment for any song.

Those musicians with a bent toward writing original music will find that knowing theory is essential in creating music for lyrics. Even if you don’t transcribe the music yourself, chord theory will give you the means of communicating your ideas to the transcriptionist. The final product will be exactly as you envision it.

Once you understand how chords work, you’re also in a better position to learn to play other instruments; if not play them yourself, be able to work with other musicians in the setting of a band. For example, another instrument which relies heavily upon chord theory is the guitar. This is why many piano players find it easy to pick up on playing the guitar. In a band, the music relies very heavily upon the lead of the guitar and the piano. A knowledge and understanding of chord theory ensures that the pianist and guitarist are always on the same page, so to speak.

It’s vital to find a good instructor when it comes to chords. It may mean the difference between giving up in frustration and success by becoming proficient. Taking advantage of jam sessions in your area will also help you put chord theory skills into practice in a casual environment. You’ll be able to learn from other musicians whose passions are similar. Plus, students who learn chord theory notice a marked improvement in their general piano playing skills.

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Why Men Cheat?

Posted on December 8, 2019 by admin

Why men cheat often turns into a very heated debate between women and men with a range of different opinions! In today’s blog post we are going to discuss the top five reasons men cheat. There could be more, but those we’ll save for another time!

Bored/not getting his needs met. If there is not enough stimulation in the relationship in the form of sex, conversation, recreational companionship (doing fun things together, shared hobbies, etc.) a man can get bored and look to another woman to fill that void. That doesn’t mean you should sleep with your date right away, actually quite the contrary, you should wait until you are sure of his intentions towards you (preferably until you are exclusive). When a man doesn’t have to work or put in any effort (planning dates consistently, following through, treating you great) to sleep with you, or even to get some of your time and attention (and your phone number!) then you run the risk of him getting bored and looking elsewhere for a challenge. Men have a great need for things to be difficult during dating (they won’t tell you this though). Don’t be too easy and you will keep your man on his toes and he will love the feeling (that is if he is into you enough).

Similarly if your man has a great need to spend time with you and do fun things together (we call this recreational companionship and this is a strong need for most men, contrary to what many think) and you are always doing your own thing, working or are traveling, he may slowly start to look to others to fill that need, whether it’s another women or a male friend. This does not mean you should spend every waking hour together or that you should accept last minute dates (you shouldn’t) but it does mean that if a man has asked you out in advance for the weekend, make sure you clear up your schedule to allow time for dating (1-2 dates a week)! Or else you won’t get married. No need to initiate plans or ask a man out (a big no) but be receptive when a man asks you out and if he asks you for date suggestions happily give him some general preferences, and leave the rest up to him.

Showing no appreciation. Men live to make women happy. They want to please you and if a man loves you he will move heaven and earth (or ask ten people to move their heads in the movie theater until you can see) to see that smile on your face. To him, that smile and those simple words of appreciation, mean he is succeeding at pleasing you, which is his ultimate goal! Don’t cheapen out on words of appreciation. Always see the good in him and appreciate the effort he puts in to please you and make your life easier, even in some small way!

If you consistently fail to see all the little ways he is trying to please you, and focus on all of the things he is doing wrong all the time, he will get frustrated with you, and if its in the beginning of dating he will more than likely leave you and find a more appreciative, happy girl to spend time with. If you have been together for a while or are married then he may start spending more time away from you, at work or with his buddies, and yes, some men will look to other women for that attention/appreciation.

Letting yourself go. This reason often angers women the most, but it’s also true to some extent. Yes, a man is with you because he loves you for you, but all men are visual and they tend to oogle women who look good. You don’t have to be perfect (after all he is with you because your look is attractive to him), but you do have to keep up your physique, as well as your hair, nails and wardrobe. Don’t fool yourself into thinking your man won’t notice, or he doesn’t seem bothered. Men notice everything, and besides if he loves you he won’t want to hurt your feelings and tell you upfront he wished you dressed sexier around the house. Don’t go to extremes in this area, as some women do get obsessed, but have a healthy attitude towards looking and feeling your best, and this will surely keep your man happy.

Being lazy with your looks comes hand in hand with being lazy in other areas in your relationship/life in general and should be a yellow flag to take action and make some improvements. For many men having an attractive, well kept women is a huge need for them and a source of pride, so if you have this type of man who loves to show you off, then don’t let yourself go, or else you will find his eyes wandering elsewhere (realistically a man’s eyes almost always wander towards pretty women, but at least you know he is satisfied with what he’s got-you!).

You put him down in front of others. There’s a fine line between teasing your man in public or in front of friends (and still you might want to tread lightly, a man’s ego can be fragile) and putting him down or making him look bad. Women love to criticize, they view is as “constructive criticism” but to a man it is hardly constructive, it is embarrassing and unnecessary!

Be very careful of making your man look bad in front of his friends, family or in public. Avoid it all together. He might not say anything to you, but he will resent it and his anger at you could come out in other ways, too. If you want to criticize constructively, then do it in private and keep it short and to the point. He’ll appreciate it when you don’t go into an angry rage or a long winded hour-long conversation. Tell him, “It made me feel x when you did y, please don’t do that again honey.” Fini.

Being overly controlling of his every move. Men hate women who try to control them and who check up on them all the time, who snoop into their phone, and who are always suspicious and uneasy. Don’t sleep at the wheel, but also don’t go overboard with all the interrogations and accusations! If you believe your man is cheating, ask yourself if it’s based solely on your fear, or if it’s based on his behavior. If it’s based on his behavior, then you are with the wrong man and you need to move on quickly.

If it’s based on your fear then you need to get to the root of the problem of why you feel like this (is it insecurity or is it a result of a past experience, or maybe it’s both?). If you don’t resolve this feeling you will continue to be suspicious of every man you meet, and you will sabotage all your relationships. Consider meeting one on one with a therapist and get this issue resolved as best as you can. Being too controlling will make him want to rebel, and you might find him in the arms of another woman! Don’t give him a reason to stray, keep your eyes wide open but also don’t be sucked into a fear based illusion that can destroy your relationship if you let it.

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Norman Architecture and Norman Castles

Posted on December 8, 2019 by admin

INTRODUCTION:

The name Norman is derived from a region of Northern France. Norman architecture refers to the constructions made by the Normans. These are not only seen in Northern France and England but also seen in Southern Italy and Sicily. The style of architecture used in Norman buildings is called Romanesque style. The period of Norman architecture extended from 1066 to 1204. In the year 1066 the Saxon-Dane rulers of England were overthrown by the Normans.

NORMAN ARCHITECTURE:

The Normans developed the wooden Motte and Bailey castles in Normandy. This was the first event in the evolution of Norman architecture. Later after invasion of England the Castle keep was used by the Normans. This castle keeps replaced the top of the wooden Motte. Later on, stone was used by the Normans to build their castles. This made the advent of the Norman-Romanesque Architecture. New techniques were developed by the Normans in the construction of castles. They developed the stone vault ceiling, the buttress and the arch to support the weight of the stones and bricks used in the construction of the castles.

These castles build under Norman-Romanesque architecture were very expensive but the castles were long-lasting and durable. The castles were constructed in such a way so that they indicated Fear, Ave, Domination, Envy, Submission, Respect, Power and Wealth. The best site for the construction of the castle was close to a river or a sea.

Stones used in the construction were very heavy. Roman arches were utilized to support this heavy stones. The windows were very small in size so as to support the walls from collapsing by giving them strength. Stone roofs were constructed. These roofs were supported by the vaults. The vaults were of different types like Barrel or Tunnel vaults and Groin Vaults. The Norman arches were made with simple geometry. The arches had zig zag carvings around it. The doorways were present under the tympanum under the arch. These zig zag patterns were also called chevron patterns.

NORMAN CASTLES:

The Norman castles were very massive and housed many men and horses. The castles also housed cavalry. The castles were used to govern the surrounding districts and also to frighten people around. Not only castles but many churches and cathedrals were also constructed in this Norman architectural pattern. The churches had a cruciform plan. The castles were mostly built on a high and elevated land. The Norman castles were initially built with timber. Later, after invading England they were converted to stone. The wooden motte on which the castle was built was not strong enough to bear the weight of the solid stone tower. To solve this problem the Norman castle keep was developed and also the weight of the tower was reduced.The walls of the castles also had some sculptures carved on them.

Some of the castles built under Norman architecture are: The Beeston Castle (Cheshire), Corfe Castle (Dorset), Peveril (Derbyshire), The Great castle of the de Warenne family (Lewes, Sussex), Baynard’s castle (London), Royal castles of Nottingham, Warwick and York, etc,.

CONCLUSION:

Norman Castles and their architectural designs have made a lasting impact on the British Landscape and History. Most of them are standing tall and strong even till this date which is a testimony of the quality of construction and architectural skills.

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Top Tips That Help To Maximize Profit and Minimize Loss

Posted on December 7, 2019 by admin

Profit making is an essential part of business and the very reason that a proprietorship, partnership or company is formed. Irrespective of the size of the business, the ultimate goal for any business organization is to make maximum profits.

Profit making is not just about increasing your revenue multifold by increasing the sales but it is also about minimizing losses in a manner that it influences your profit-making ability. Not many in the business world look into the profit-making details and hence lose out on things that can play a role in maximizing profits and minimizing losses.

Increasing revenue and cutting costs are the two basic principles involved in achieving your business goals. Given in this article are simple tips that will help in achieving this goal at ease – without a fuss and without much sweat!

Increasing Revenue

Increasing revenue is the main aspect of profit maximization. Maximizing revenue generation will automatically help in increasing the profits of a business. It is important that you have the basics covered to ensure that this goal is achieved.

Increasing Sales – Improvisation of quality of product or service and using the right promotional methods can help to increase the sales of a business. It is important to have a good marketing strategy and the right implementation routes for the same to ensure a substantial increase in sales.

Up-selling to Existing Customers – This is a sales technique and an important marketing strategy whereby upgrades and enhancements of existing products and services are marketed and sold to existing customers.

Diversification of Product Range – Increasing the product range of a business presents better opportunities to increase revenue as a diversified product range brings in new customers and opens up new market avenues.

Revision of Prices – Prices need to be revised on a regular basis based on the sales turnover and market demand. Independent costs of each product sold needs to be worked out and an optimal balance between sales margins and the quantity sold has to be achieved to ensure increased revenue.

Cutting Costs

Cost cutting can happen even in the minutest aspect of the business and yet prove to be advantageous when you look at it over a period of time. It is important to know where you need to cut costs. One important rule that you need to remember is that ‘never cut costs that are directly or indirectly related to production’. Cost that does not affect the production of the business needs to be looked into and those are the ones that you need to reduce.

Negotiating Price of Supplies – It is important to strike a bargain while purchasing raw materials for products. The price of anything that is bought in bulk can be negotiated. This will help to reduce the cost of production to a large extent.

Efficient Manufacturing Process – Setting up a production line system can help in breaking down the manufacturing process into independent individual tasks that are easy to handle and effective in output.

Bringing Down Opportunity Costs – Opportunity costs are incurred due to a missed opportunity. If machines are purchased instead of a leased agreement, it adds value to the business rather than spending money on lease and rent.

Evaluate Money Spent on Promotion – Ensure that the money spent on sales promotions are paying off otherwise it may be essential to change your promotional strategy. Anything is good as long as it works for you but never take too long to evaluate the impact of a promotional campaign.

Reviewing the Cost Structure – It is imperative to review the cost structure once every now and then. A quick assessment will help to review any additional costs incurred during the production process and change the end price based on that assessment.

Decisions That Have an Impact On Revenue and Cost

At times there are certain business decisions that have an impact on both revenue as well as cost. Reducing sales prices can be one such, where the reduction of price can lead to an increase in demand, in turn creating a need to increase the supply and enhance the production costs, which again can be nullified due to a larger scale of production. This is called the economies of scale which plays a vital role in any production or manufacturing business.

Employee Motivation

Your employees are the pillars of the business – it is important that they remain motivated to ensure their overall efficiency. Simple motivation techniques can help them stay focused and increase their efficiency. Recognition for their contribution to the company is one of the main motivating factors that augurs well for the rewarded employee and also serves as a motivation for the others to excel and get such rewards in the future.

Effective Risk Management System

It is necessary that a business has an effective risk management system in place that aids in minimizing the business risks. A proper evaluation of the business in essential to ensure that you have your bases covered while implementing the system.

Assessment of probable risks in the business including threats, vulnerabilities, etc., that can have an overall impact on the revenue and cost of the business.

Evaluating the gaps and loop holes in the business that can possibly widen increasing its vulnerability and thereby having an impact on the profits of the business.

Once the risks are identified it is imperative to address them. Controlling and reducing the identified risks can be effected through proper debtor management, internal audits, proper maintenance of machinery and tools, training and development of employees, compliance and a change in the process or system.

Transferring of risks by the way of insurance, outsourcing, partnerships and joint ventures can help in balancing the risk, wherein it can be spread out, reduced or transferred depending on the choice of business deal.

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Get Out of Debt With God’s Help

Posted on December 7, 2019 by admin

There is nothing more debilitating than debt. It weighs down the mind and destroys the spirit if allowed to continue. People can even decide to commit suicide when the struggle to get out of the burden becomes too much. It’s all because society places a severe handicap on those who over-step their financial limits and ability to repay money borrowed for one thing or another. The worst form of debt today is that experienced with Credit Cards and Mortgages.

In Australia the amount of debt held by individuals is staggering and while the government is happy to be collecting taxes on what people earn they are loath to help when it comes to debt. Interest rates are governed to ensure that the economy stays afloat and manipulation of how this is achieved sees many plunged even further into the quagmires of debt handicap.

The big questions are how does one get out of debt and why would God help? To answer the last question first we have within a spiritual link and that connects us to the Great Power of the Universe. It is seeking its own people and calling them back from the things of the world. If you are linked to it in this way then you are entitled to be helped by the Spirit.

The second question is more difficult and requires a lot of concentration and sacrifice on the part of the debtor. First cut up all credit cards and dispose of the. Spend no money that you physically don’t have and the best way to do that is to stay single focused when shopping. Don’t look at ads and certainly don’t buy anything because it is on sale.

The next thing to think about is how much one spends on things like Christmas and Easter. These are festivals born of sun-worship and put up by the religion of 666. His identity is Constantine and he established the Catholic Church in 325 AD based on Islamic principles from Babylon. This is explained in Revelation 13:12-18 where it also states that he controls commerce and finance.

The industries that deal in these things want your money. The people who run them are not interested in your problems but only in how much they can extract from you. Christmas and other festivals are triggers for forcing you into debt and the credit card is the vehicle to do it. It’s easy to spend money when you are not handling it. The card overrides that need and it makes people feel good that they can just act like millionaires and get what they want immediately.

They tend to forget that they have to repay the debt on the card and that leads them to overspend and charge it up. The interest becomes the ‘money cow’ that banks and financial institutions are interested in.

Money is, therefore, a battleground between the Spirit of the Universe and 666. When you turn your debt over to the real God it will amaze you how quickly things will come right. If, on the other hand, you struggle on alone then you may never get out of the debt which may, in fact, increase.

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3 Classic Rock Guitar Playing Myths That Are Killing Your Musical Progress

Posted on December 6, 2019 by admin

You become a great classic rock guitar player when you avoid the mistakes mediocre guitarists make. It's common for these mediocre players to believe in one or more myths about how you're "supposed" to play classic rock guitar.

Make faster progress in your guitar playing by avoiding the following guitar playing myths classic rock guitar players believe:

Myth # 1: Learning Arpeggios Makes You Sound Like A Shred Or Metal Guitarist

You can play arpeggios without playing fast or without sounding like a metal guitarist. Arpeggios are used in every style of music, because they are just broken up chords. Learning arpeggios improves your fretboard visualization which helps to target chord tones while soloing. This gives you more creative options to choose from, plus it helps make your solos sound better and more expressive. Additionally, learning how to phrase arpeggios creatively helps you fit them into any musical style you want to fit them into.

Myth # 2: Learning Music Theory Restricts You And Makes You Less Creative

A lot of classic rock guitar players falsely assume that music theory consists of a bunch of rules that restrict you to playing a certain way. They avoid learning more about music theory because they claim it keeps them from being creative.

Reality: Music theory is not a set of rules – it's a way to explain and predict what causes you to feel specific emotions when you hear music. This in no way takes away from your personal style or current ability to express yourself musically. In fact, it only adds more to your current skills set, giving you much greater potential to express your ideas clearly in music.

Understanding how music theory works helps you express yourself more creatively in music. For example, the more you know about how chords and scales work together, the better the choices you can make while soloing to express the exact emotions you want to express.

Myth # 3: Classic Rock Is Drastically Different From Other Styles Of Guitar

You need the same skills to be a great classic rock guitarist as you do to play any other electric guitar style. For example: knowing which notes to choose when playing over certain chords, playing with excellent two hand synchronization, mastering vibrato and bending, etc. All guitar styles use these same skills. It's how the skills are applied and integrated together that determines what your playing sounds like.

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Therapeutic Horseback Riding – An Overview

Posted on December 6, 2019 by admin

Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THR) is a therapeutic program that provides equine assisted activities for individuals with disabilities in order to improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This is done through an adaptive riding program that focuses not only on riding skills but also on the development of a relationship between the horse and rider. The program can include work both on the ground such as grooming, leading, or directing a horse, and activities on horseback.

Therapeutic riding activities are conducted by certified therapeutic riding instructors in conjunction with trained volunteers. During riding activities a new rider or an individual with physical limitations is generality assisted by two side-walkers who walk alongside the horse, as well as a horse leader. These individuals are volunteers that have been trained to assist the instructor in the conduct of the therapeutic program.

Therapeutic riding differs from hippo-therapy, one form of equine assisted therapy, in that in hippo-therapy a physical or occupational therapist uses only the movement of the horse to improve an individual’s sensory and motor skills. The therapist does not teach riding skills or seek to develop a relationship between the horse and rider. The primary goal of hippo-therapy is to improve the individual’s balance, posture, function, and mobility. Therapeutic riding is a broader program of therapy that can include multiple therapeutic elements simultaneously.

Therapeutic riding combines the physical aspect of riding in improving balance, posture and mobility and adds the mental, emotional and cognitive skills required to ride a horse and develop a positive working relationship with the horse. This expansion of therapy beyond just the physical aspects involved in riding a horse can improve an individual’s emotional control, behavioral self-regulation and cognitive functioning and help them function more productively and effectively in society.

Therapeutic riding centers and their instructors are certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International and therapy is conducted as part of an overall treatment plan developed in conjunction with a medical health professional. Safety is a paramount concern and therapeutic riding is not appropriate for individuals with certain disabilities. Instructors work with the health care provider to plan for the individual’s needs, appropriate supervision, and ensure rider safety.

There are a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional disabilities that can benefit from the use of therapeutic riding. Some of the many individuals who research has proven can benefit from therapeutic horseback riding include those with attention deficit disorder, autism, amputations, brain injuries, stroke, cerebral palsy, downs syndrome, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and a wide variety of emotional, cognitive, or mental disabilities.

For those with physical limitations experiencing the rhythmic motion of a horse can be very beneficial to improve muscle function and control. Riding a horse moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to the human gait, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. For individuals with mental and emotional challenges, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem

There have been numerous studies that have shown evidence of the benefits of therapeutic riding. Individuals with cognitive disabilities such as autism or Downs Syndrome have shown demonstrated benefits from THR. Bass, Duchowny, and Llabre (2008) found that children with autism who participated in a therapeutic horseback riding program improved in sensory integration and directed attention as compared to the control group. While Biery and Kaufman (1989) showed that significant improvement was seen on standing and quadruped balance after the therapeutic riding program for individuals with Downs Syndrome

A large amount of research in therapeutic riding has involved children with cerebral palsy as therapeutic riding has long been used as a method to help improve their physical abilities. Zadnikar and Kastrin (2011) conducted an analysis of multiple studies on the effectiveness of THR for children with cerebral palsy. It was found that riding lead to improved coordination, head and trunk control and improved gait. There are several reasons posited for these improvements. One is that the horse’s gait provides a precise, smooth, rhythmic, and repetitive pattern of movement to the rider that is similar to the mechanics of human gait. Another reason is the horse’s center of gravity is displaced three-dimensionally when walking, resulting in a movement that is very similar to that of the human pelvis during walking. A final reason for the physical benefits is that adjusting to the horse’s movements involves the use of muscles and joint movements which, over time, lead to increased strength and range of motion. Although these studies were focused on individuals with cerebral palsy, it is believed the physical benefits would also apply individuals with other types of physical disabilities as well.

Therapeutic riding can be a great source of exercise and therapy for people with multiple sclerosis. They can participate in riding within their limits of strength and energy and still enjoy an active recreational activity. Much like individuals with cerebral palsy it can also help improve an individuals physical motor skills and help them stay limber and active. Silkwood-Sherer and Warmbier (2007) found that individuals demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in balance following 7 weeks of therapeutic riding.

In looking at children with learning disabilities, Crothers (1994) theorized that riding a horse stimulates both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously to improve their cognitive abilities. It is also thought that the areas of the brain that control attention, impulses, and activity levels are directly stimulated. As energy is directed to different parts of the brain, and attention is called to many separate tasks at once (picture holding the reins, balancing, and directing the horse, all while completing a task), the neurotransmitters released when riding create an effect that is similar to the one created by stimulant medication that is normally prescribed for children with ADHD. This then makes it possible for an ADHD child to concentrate and to be less hyperactive, fidgety, or impulsive.

Therapeutic riding has gained increasing use to treat posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and other mental illness with many organizations, including the Veterans Administration, establishing programs for veterans. These programs have proven extremely popular and anecdotally have shown great success. However, there has been no significant completed research on these veterans programs. Shambo and Seely (2010) conducted a study to measure specific changes and durability of change for adult women with PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder who were victims of traumatic interpersonal violence, when treated with therapeutic riding. In this study, individuals showed significant positive changes in depression, dissociative symptoms, and treatment effectiveness overall. The change effect continued post treatment as participants’ scores showed even more improvement in follow ups four month later. It is believed that ongoing research into the effectiveness of veterans and other mental health aspects of therapeutic riding programs will show similar benefits.

Therapeutic riding also has benefits that are not always directly measurable, but are seen in the perceptions of others who interact with individuals. Miller and Alson (2004) studied the benefits that therapeutic riding has on children with disabilities through the eyes of their parents. The results indicated that the parent noted significant changes in their children who are in these types of programs including increases in self-esteem, following directions to the fullest, and better socialization skills.

Viewing the equine as a partner provides opportunities for relationship building and interpersonal skill development with all individuals who participate in therapeutic riding activities. Because of this potential emotional benefit, recent research studies have looked into the impact of therapeutic riding with a variety of populations. Kaiser, Smith, Heleski, and Spence (2006) used an 8-week therapeutic riding program, to demonstrate decreases in anger in adolescent males. Additionally, the mothers’ perceptions of their sons’ behaviors improved. Another study found statistically significant improvements in self-concept, intellectual and school status, popularity, happiness, and satisfaction in emotionally and behaviorally challenged teens (Emory, 1992).

To maintain therapeutic standards the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) is the primary organization for the certification of therapeutic riding centers and instructors. The organization establishes and maintains standards to promote safety and achieve optimal outcomes for individuals in equine assisted therapies. It is focused on the establishment of industry guidelines for the practice and teaching of therapeutic riding to ensure that centers and instructors maintain the safest, most ethical and most effective programs possible. There are over 4,600 certified PATH instructors and 850 PATH centers worldwide that provide therapeutic riding and other equine assisted activities and therapy.

To become a PATH certified riding instructor an individual must successfully complete a skills assessment and certification exam, complete 25 mentored instruction hours conducting classes with a certified PATH professional, and complete an on-site certification event. The certification event is the candidate’s final evaluation. Typically a two day event, it is divided into two categories; horsemanship and teaching ability. An individual has two years to complete all of the requirements to obtain certification once they start the certification process.

Once an individual obtains their certification they must document a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education annually, of which at least 6 hours must be disability education. Disability education is designed to provide instructors with greater understanding of the physical, social, cognitive and/or behavioral impacts experienced by individuals with disabilities, mental health disorders or emotional trauma. The education should help the instructor understand how to communicate with and more effectively instruct a wide range participants. Beyond the basic certification level, individuals can obtain advanced and master riding instructor certification through demonstrating increasing levels of skill and experience through an extremely rigorous certification process.

The certification requirements work to insure that therapeutic programs provide a safe and beneficial environment for the riders, volunteers, and the horses involved in the program. The amount of benefit gained through therapeutic riding differs from person to person based on many factors such as the type of disability, severity of disability, motivation of the rider and connection between horse and rider. Unlike exercise machines that may only focus on one muscle group at a time and do not use natural body movements, riding forces the rider to make use of the entire body to steer, control, adjust the horse and maintain balance. Because horses require not only physical skill but also cognitive skill for achievement, riding reveals the strengths and weaknesses of the rider. During traditional therapeutic techniques patients often reach a plateau where they may lose motivation. However, the pleasure and excitement of riding can provide additional motivation to encourage patients to work through their pain and discomfort. The act of accomplishing something that even able-bodied people are sometimes afraid to try can also sometimes benefit those with disabilities, providing them with additional confidence and self-esteem.

It is clear from the research and from the responses of individual participants that therapeutic riding is a physical activity that can provide significant benefits to individuals with physical, emotional, or mental challenges. It requires an individual to control and exercise a wide range of muscles, while simultaneously having the individual exercise emotional and cognitive skills required to maintain control of the horse. Like any physical activity it provides benefits beyond those to the muscular skeletal and cardiovascular systems. There are boosts to cognitive skills as well as to emotional well-being. The interaction with the horse adds an additional element to the equation in that the individual can establish a relationship or connection with their equine partner. Therapeutic riding is a beneficial physical activity has demonstrated the ability to change and benefit the lives of numerous individuals and assist them to live a healthier, more active, and more productive life.

References:

Biery, Martha, Kaufmann, Nancy, 1989, “The Effects of Therapeutic Horseback Riding on Balance.” Adaptive Physical Activity Quarterly, Volume 6, Issue 3, pgs 221-229.

Crothers, G. (1994). “Learning disability: Riding to success.” Nursing Standard, 8, 16-18.

Emory, D. (1992). “Effects of therapeutic horsemanship on the self-concepts and behavior of asocial adolescents.” Dissertation Abstracts International, DAI-B 53/05, 561.

Kaiser, L., Smith, K., Heleski, C., & Spence, L. (2006). “Effects of a therapeutic riding program on at-risk and special needs children.” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 228, 46-52.

Learn About Therapeutic Riding. PATH International, November 3, 2015.

Miller, John, Alston, Dr. Antoine J, “Therapeutic Riding: An Educational Tool for Children with Disabilities as Viewed by Parents”, Journal of Southern Agricultural Education Research, 2004, Volume 54, Number 1, pgs 113-123.

Scheidhacker, M., Bender, W., and Vaitel, P. (1991). “The effectiveness of therapeutic horseback riding in the treatment of chronic schizophrenic patients. Experimental results and clinical experiences.” Nervenarzt, 62, 283-287.

Shambo, Leigh, Seely, Susan K., Voderfecht, Heather R. “A Pilot Study on Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy for Trauma Related Disorders”, 2010,

Stickney, Margaret Ann, “A Qualitative Study of the Perceived Health Benefits of a Therapeutic Riding Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders”, 2010, University of Kentucky Doctoral Dissertations. Paper 40.

Zadnikar Monika, Kastrin Andrej, “Effects of hippotherapy and therapeutic horseback riding on postural control or balance in children with cerebral palsy: a meta-analysis”, August 2011, Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, Volume 53, Issue 8, pages 684-691.

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Features Of The HP C9701A Toner

Posted on December 6, 2019 by admin

Toner cartridges are manufactured to assist in fulfilling the functionality of printers. This is because they provide the color used in the printing of data from the printer. Every toner is contained in small cans called cartridges, which are inserted into the printer. Most people differentiate toner cartridges with their brands, however toner cartridges carry out just the same functions, save for the differences in color. Hewlett-Packard manufactures the HP C9701A Toner. Even though the toner can perform the same functions as other toner cartridges, it has features and specifications, which set it apart from the others. That is one of the reasons that every toner is given distinctive identification format, which can be seen from the construction of the name. The model number creates the identification, which is C9701A. The model number is one of the vital points of reference for this toner, which should be used to identify it.

Some of the other features, which isolate the HP C9701A Toner from the others, are based on a number of factors. Some of the features might as well still be same in other cartridges from HP or even other manufacturers. However, this does not mean so much since cartridges are generally used for printing purposes. Here are some of the features of the HP C9701A Toner:

– Advanced Toner Formulation: Even though cartridges perform similar functions, they do not produce documents of the same quality. The HP C907A Toner is manufactured using an integrated chemical formula to ensure that one is able to get the difference in prints produced using it.

– HP C907A Toner Architecture: The construction and design of this toner is so distinct such that ordering for a fresh supply is made easier as it cannot be confused with other cartridges. The architecture also makes it easier to install, manage and maintain. The construction is simplified with characteristics that are easy to handle. This toner cartridge weighs 2 pounds and measures 14.8 x 5.2 x5.9 inches.

– Output: This refers to the maximum yield or the volume of work that the HP C9071A Toner is able to produce. This toner has the ability to print out color documents of up to 4,000 pages with an average coverage of 5%.

– Print Technology: This toner cartridge is manufactured based on Laser Print Technology. This is to ensure the production of sharp and consistent color printing at home and even in the office.

– Compatibility: HP C9071A Toner can be used in a variety of printers. The toner can function pretty well in HP Color LaserJet 1500 series, which includes 1500, and 1500L. It can also be used with HP Color LaserJet 2500 series, which includes models like 2500, 2500L, 2500n and 2500tn.

l User Involvement: The HP C9071A Toner ensures a fail-proof printer operational durability, which assists in reduction of involvement by the user. This feature can be useful in ensuring that the user of this toner has the opportunity to save on both money and time.

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Relationship Theory

Posted on December 5, 2019 by admin

The Relationship theory state in all relationships we are either in recovery or relapse, Assuming we all interact with different elements present in our environment the intensity (energy) of different relationships grows stronger or weaker as life happens; For example, our first relationship being the bond between mother and child. Survival depends on less more intense relationships, as an infant then for a toddler, or teenager. Another way to say this would be the amount time involved in a mother-child exchange has a major significance to one’s existence. Relationships result in tension (friction) causing a discomfort (stress) Recovery from tension relieves the symptoms of friction. Relapse is a conscious or unconscious reversion back to an unhealthy relationship. RT assumes we all have a tendency to be drawn to particular relationships with a propensity toward stressful and unhealthy ones, relapse inevitably will follow. Becoming aware of such relationships enables us to choose alternative methods of behavior reducing relationship intensity. An example would be an alcoholic working at a bar, or a sex offender living close to their substance (relationship) of choice. Relapse prevention is an ongoing process of recovery.

Being aware of our relationships, knowing which one are stressful, alternative actions can be tried. Knowing how and when relapse happened, the results for the next encounter with a given relationship can be changed to have a different outcome. Being able to recognize which relationships may cause us harm and understanding how our behaviors and attitudes contribute toward involvement in harmful relationships, we are able to better assess the potential harm a particular relationship is currently having on ourselves and others.Developing an awareness and ability to recognize which relationships are harmful can be a motivational influence in developing different thought patterns, and behaviors to reduce stress and relapse. Becoming aware of such relationships avails opportunities to choose alternative methods of behaving which reduce relationship intensity even further. What is important in Relationship Theory is self-motivated internally induced willingness to explore better relationships. Using Motivational Interviewing and Brief Interviewing Relationship Theory can be used with individuals, groups and families.

Brief Interventions for substance abuse empower individuals to take small steps to behavioral change. A substance abuse problem may not always be the presented problem. Recognizing changing behavior takes action on an individual basis is a vital part of treatment outcome. Motivational interviewing techniques are designed to help clients recognize their ability to manage parts of life by changing behaviors. As with BI Motivational Interviewing sees “moving toward any decision” is worth consideration, and can contribute to motivation in the future. Harm reduction also considers small change as good change. When coupled within the Relationship theory paradigm abuse and dependence become associations producing a relationship that produces less stress (recovery) or one of disease (relapse). No judgment is placed on either state of mind. Being aware of our relationships, knowing which one are stressful, alternative actions can be tried. Knowing how and when relapse happened, the results for the next encounter with a given relationship can be changed to have an alternative outcome. Motivation comes from within, as realizations that as thoughts change so can behaviors. MI, BI, and HR all recognize the importance of self-empowerment. The Relationship Theory Give us a simple chart to place relationships in and to measure their effectiveness.

Brief Interventions

Brief Interventions fill part of a “hole” between prevention efforts and more serious treatment (TIP 34, samhsa, p XV). It can also reduce the amount the cost of emergency room visits in the future. By catering to the presented problem of each individual BI can effect changes in client’s behavior. The ultimate goal is to reduce the harm when there is continued use of drugs changing behavior, If not addressed the result could be harmful. A more comprehensive goal would include a specific goal for each client, established by mutually agreed on use pattern (TIP 34). BI takes small steps to confirm clients overall belief in self, and willingness to take actions to make a change.

The acronym FRAMES give a road map when done with a pension can produce expected results. Goals achieved. Using basic listening skills efficiently enables the counselor to engage clients using Feedback, empowering Responsibility, give suggestions based on best practice principles, explore (Menu) options of possible behavior changes, showing Empathy, and promoting Self-efficacy (TIP 34 2008, Osborn, 2008). BI “should be targeted specifically to those who are relatively low on the readiness-to-change continuum (Osborn, 2008, p. 155).”The best way to look at BI is as a short term, Informative treatment with flexible goals, allowing individuals to decide on control or abstinence. BI is a detailed, attentive process relying on assessment, engagement, and prompt application of change strategies (TIP 34).

Harm Reduction

The HR model seeks to reduce harm caused by substance abuse. For example an individual presenting the problem of having multiple driving under the influence charges may see the problem as being in the wrong place at the right time. They just seem to be caught more than others. They may feel their drinking is not a big problem, but the problem is they get caught driving while over the legal limit. They may feel since they have been drinking for some time they can handle their intoxication better than they know. So what is the presenting problem? Is it drinking or is it driving under the influence? What choice does this individual have that will reduce the potential of being caught once again with another DUI? Two options are obvious. One is to stop drinking another is to stop driving while intoxicated. The natural choice would be to stop driving under the influence. Discussions based on Harm reduction would concentrate on ways to drink and not drive such as having a designated driver, drinking at home, or reduce the amount drunk or abstain from alcohol consumption when driving is anticipated. Harm reduction focuses on changing behavior seen as potentially harmful to oneself and others. Driving under the influence has a great potential to harm others as well as one self. Reducing the potential to harm others demonstrates an individual’s ability to willingly accept responsibility for their actions.

Other forms of HR are needle exchanges for IV users, reducing the harm of using dirty needles may cause to the user. Methadone programs are used as a drug replacement to reduce the urges to get high. Pharmacological interventions have been used to facilitate detoxification. Counseling as a form of education can be beneficial in helping individuals recognize potential harm substance abuse may be causing in their lives. Once change is considered than options can be explored. Methods used in harm reduction counseling encompass Brief Interventions such as empowering clients to embrace self-worth, Motivational Interviewing by encouraging setting goals that strengthen self-efficacy, and exploration into better life skills.

Motivational Interviewing

“Change is the central feature of any therapeutic interaction (Aasheim & Wallace, 2008, p. 131).” Like BI MI is a relationship-centered client-centered system of change. By understanding where each client is on a scale of motivation to change methods can vary. The goal is to guide an individual in a course of discovery, where hesitation towards change is diffused. The stage of change one is in could be pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance and relapse. The four key attitudes embraced in MI are expressing empathy, developing discrepancy, rolling with resistance and support self-efficacy (Aasheim & Wallace, 2008).

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Business Analyst Finance Domain Sample Resume

Posted on December 5, 2019 by admin

This is just a sample Business Analyst resume for freshers as well as for experienced job seekers in Finance domain of business analyst or system analyst. While this is only a sample resume, please use this only for reference purpose, do not copy the same client names or job duties for your own purpose. Always make your own resume with genuine experience.

Name: Justin Megha

Ph no: XXXXXXX

your email here.

Business Analyst, Business Systems Analyst

SUMMARY

  • Accomplished in Business Analysis, System Analysis, Quality Analysis and Project Management with extensive experience in business products, operations and Information Technology on the capital markets space specializing in Finance such as Trading, Fixed Income, Equities, Bonds, Derivatives(Swaps, Options, etc) and Mortgage with sound knowledge of broad range of financial instruments.
  • Over 11+ Years of proven track record as value-adding, delivery-loaded project hardened professional with hands-on expertise spanning in System Analysis, Architecting Financial applications, Data warehousing, Data Migrations, Data Processing, ERP applications, SOX Implementation and Process Compliance Projects.
  • Accomplishments in analysis of large-scale business systems, Project Charters, Business Requirement Documents, Business Overview Documents, Authoring Narrative Use Cases, Functional Specifications, and Technical Specifications, data warehousing, reporting and testing plans.
  • Expertise in creating UML based Modelling views like Activity/ Use Case/Data Flow/Business Flow /Navigational Flow/Wire Frame diagrams using Rational Products & MS Visio.
  • Proficient as long time liaison between business and technology with competence in Full Life Cycle of System (SLC) development with Waterfall, Agile, RUP methodology, IT Auditing and SOX Concepts as well as broad cross-functional experiences leveraging multiple frameworks.
  • Extensively worked with the On-site and Off-shore Quality Assurance Groups by assisting the QA team to perform Black Box /GUI testing/ Functionality /Regression /System /Unit/Stress /Performance/ UAT’s.
  • Facilitated change management across entire process from project conceptualization to testing through project delivery, Software Development & Implementation Management in diverse business & technical environments, with demonstrated leadership abilities.

EDUCATION

  • Post Graduate Diploma (in Business Administration), USA
  • Master’s Degree (in Computer Applications),
  • Bachelor’s Degree (in Commerce),

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Documentation Tools UML, MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Project), MS Visio, Erwin

SDLC Methodologies Waterfall, Iterative, Rational Unified Process (RUP), Spiral, Agile

Modeling Tools UML, MS Visio, Erwin, Power Designer, Metastrom Provision

Reporting Tools Business Objects X IR2, Crystal Reports, MS Office Suite

QA Tools Quality Center, Test Director, Win Runner, Load Runner, QTP, Rational Requisite Pro, Bugzilla, Clear Quest

Languages Java, VB, SQL, HTML, XML, UML, ASP, JSP

Databases & OS MS SQL Server, Oracle 10g, DB2, MS Access on Windows XP / 2000, Unix

Version Control Rational Clear Case, Visual Source Safe

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

SERVICE MASTER, Memphis, TN June 08 – Till Date

Senior Business Analyst

Terminix has approximately 800 customer service agents that reside in our branches in addition to approximately 150 agents in a centralized call center in Memphis, TN. Terminix customer service agents receive approximately 25 million calls from customers each year. Many of these customer’s questions are not answered or their problems are not resolved on the first call. Currently these agents use an AS/400 based custom developed system called Mission to answer customer inquiries into branches and the Customer Communication Center. Mission – Terminix’s operation system – provides functionality for sales, field service (routing & scheduling, work order management), accounts receivable, and payroll. This system is designed modularly and is difficult to navigate for customer service agents needing to assist the customer quickly and knowledgeably. The amount of effort and time needed to train a customer service representative using the Mission system is high. This combined with low agent and customer retention is costly.

Customer Service Console enables Customer Service Associates to provide consistent, enhanced service experience, support to the Customers across the Organization. CSC is aimed at providing easy navigation, easy learning process, reduced call time and first call resolution.

Responsibilities

  • Assisted in creating Project Plan, Road Map. Designed Requirements Planning and Management document.
  • Performed Enterprise Analysis and actively participated in buying Tool Licenses.
  • Identified subject-matter experts and drove the requirements gathering process through approval of the documents that convey their needs to management, developers, and quality assurance team.
  • Performed technical project consultation, initiation, collection and documentation of client business and functional requirements, solution alternatives, functional design, testing and implementation support.
  • Requirements Elicitation, Analysis, Communication, and Validation according to Six Sigma Standards.
  • Captured Business Process Flows and Reengineered Process to achieve maximum outputs.
  • Captured As-Is Process, designed TO-BE Process and performed Gap Analysis
  • Developed and updated functional use cases and conducted business process modeling (PROVISION) to explain business requirements to development and QA teams.
  • Created Business Requirements Documents, Functional and Software Requirements Specification Documents.
  • Performed Requirements Elicitation through Use Cases, one to one meetings, Affinity Exercises, SIPOC’s.
  • Gathered and documented Use Cases, Business Rules, created and maintained Requirements/Test Traceability Matrices.

Client: The Dun & Bradstreet Corporation, Parsippany, NJ May’ 2007 – Oct’ 2007

Profile: Sr. Financial Business Analyst/ Systems Analyst.

Project Profile (1): D&B is the world’s leading source of commercial information and insight on businesses. The Point of Arrival Project and the Data Maintenance (DM) Project are the future applications of the company that the company would transit into, providing an effective method & efficient report generation system for D&B’s clients to be able purchase reports about companies they are trying to do business.

Project Profile (2): The overall purpose of this project was building a Self Awareness System(SAS) for the business community for buying SAS products and a Payment system was built for SAS. The system would provide certain combination of products (reports) for Self Monitoring report as a foundation for managing a company’s credit.

Responsibilities:

  • Conducted GAP Analysis and documented the current state and future state, after understanding the Vision from the Business Group and the Technology Group.
  • Conducted interviews with Process Owners, Administrators and Functional Heads to gather audit-related information and facilitated meetings to explain the impacts and effects of SOX compliance.
  • Played an active and lead role in gathering, analyzing and documenting the Business Requirements, the business rules and Technical Requirements from the Business Group and the Technological Group.
  • Co – Authored and prepared Graphical depictions of Narrative Use Cases, created UML Models such as Use Case Diagrams, Activity Diagrams and Flow Diagrams using MS Visio throughout the Agile methodology
  • Documented the Business Requirement Document to get a better understanding of client’s business processes of both the projects using the Agile methodology.
  • Facilitating JRP and JAD sessions, brain storming sessions with the Business Group and the Technology Group.
  • Documented the Requirement traceability matrix (RTM) and conducted UML Modelling such as creating Activity Diagrams, Flow Diagrams using MS Visio. Analysed test data to detect significant findings and recommended corrective measures
  • Co-Managed the Change Control process for the entire project as a whole by facilitating group meetings, one-on-one interview sessions and email correspondence with work stream owners to discuss the impact of Change Request on the project.
  • Worked with the Project Lead in setting realistic project expectations and in evaluating the impact of changes on the organization and plans accordingly and conducted project related presentations.
  • Co-oordinated with the off shore QA Team members to explain and develop the Test Plans, Test cases, Test and Evaluation strategy and methods for unit testing, functional testing and usability testing

Environment: Windows XP/2000, SOX, Sharepoint, SQL, MS Visio, Oracle, MS Office Suite, Mercury ITG, Mercury Quality Center, XML, XHTML, Java, J2EE.

GATEWAY COMPUTERS, Irvine, CA, Jan 06 – Mar 07

Business Analyst

At Gateway, a Leading Computer, Laptop and Accessory Manufacturer, was involved in two projects,

Order Capture Application: Objective of this Project is to Develop Various Mediums of Sales with a Centralized Catalog. This project involves wide exposure towards Requirement Analysis, Creating, Executing and Maintaining of Test plans and Test Cases. Mentored and trained staff about Tech Guide & Company Standards; Gateway reporting system: was developed with Business Objects running against Oracle data warehouse with Sales, Inventory, and HR Data Marts. This DW serves the different needs of Sales Personnel and Management. Involved in the development of it utilized Full Client reports and Web Intelligence to deliver analytics to the Contract Administration group and Pricing groups. Reporting data mart included Wholesaler Sales, Contract Sales and Rebates data.

Responsibilities:

  • Product Manager for Enterprise Level Order Entry Systems – Phone, B2B, Gateway.com and Cataloging System.
  • Modeled the Sales Order Entry process to eliminate bottleneck process steps using ERWIN.
  • Adhered and practiced RUP for implementing software development life cycle.
  • Gathered Requirements from different sources like Stakeholders, Documentation, Corporate Goals, Existing Systems, and Subject Matter Experts by conducting Workshops, Interviews, Use Cases, Prototypes, Reading Documents, Market Analysis, Observations
  • Created Functional Requirement Specification documents – which include UMLUse case diagrams, Scenarios, activity, work Flow diagrams and data mapping. Process and Data modeling with MS VISIO.
  • Worked with Technical Team to create Business Services (Web Services) that Application could leverage using SOA, to create System Architecture and CDM for common order platform.
  • Designed Payment Authorization (Credit Card, Net Terms, and Pay Pal) for the transaction/order entry systems.
  • Implemented A/B Testing, Customer Feedback Functionality to Gateway.com
  • Worked with the DW, ETL teams to create Order entry systems Business Objects reports. (Full Client, Web I)
  • Worked in a cross functional team of Business, Architects and Developers to implement new features.
  • Program Managed Enterprise Order Entry Systems – Development and Deployment Schedule.
  • Developed and maintained User Manuals, Application Documentation Manual, on Share Point tool.
  • Created Test Plansand Test Strategies to define the Objective and Approach of testing.
  • Used Quality Center to track and report system defects and bug fixes. Written modification requests for the bugs in the application and helped developers to track and resolve the problems.
  • Developed and Executed Manual, Automated Functional, GUI, Regression, UAT Test cases using QTP.
  • Gathered, documented and executed Requirements-based, Business process (workflow/user scenario), Data driven test cases for User Acceptance Testing.
  • Created Test Matrix, Used Quality Center for Test Management, track & report system defects and bug fixes.
  • Performed Load, stress Testing’s & Analyzed Performance, Response Times. Designed approach, developed visual scripts in order to test client & server side performance under various conditions to identify bottlenecks.
  • Created / developed SQL Queries (TOAD) with several parameters for Backend/DB testing
  • Conducted meetings for project status, issue identification, and parent task review, Progress Reporting.

AMC MORTGAGE SERVICES, CA, USA Oct 04 – Dec 05

Business Analyst

The primary objective of this project is to replace the existing Internal Facing Client / Server Applications with a Web enabled Application System, which can be used across all the Business Channels. This project involves wide exposure towards Requirement Analysis, Creating, Executing and Maintaining of Test plans and Test Cases. Demands understanding and testing of Data Warehouse and Data Marts, thorough knowledge of ETL and Reporting, Enhancement of the Legacy System covered all of the business requirements related to Valuations from maintaining the panel of appraisers to ordering, receiving, and reviewing the valuations.

Responsibilities:

  • Gathered Analyzed, Validated, and Managed and documented the stated Requirements. Interacted with users for verifying requirements, managing change control process, updating existing documentation.
  • Created Functional Requirement Specification documents – that include UML Use case diagrams, scenarios, activity diagrams and data mapping. Provided End User Consulting on Functionality and Business Process.
  • Acted as a client liaison to review priorities and manage the overall client queue. Provided consultation services to clients, technicians and internal departments on basic to intricate functions of the applications.
  • Identified business directions & objectives that may influence the required data and application architectures.
  • Defined, prioritized business requirements, Determine which business subject areas provide the most needed information; prioritize and sequence implementation projects accordingly.
  • Provide relevant test scenarios for the testing team. Work with test team to develop system integration test scripts and ensure the testing results correspond to the business expectations.
  • Used Test Director, QTP, Load Runner for Test management, Functional, GUI, Performance, Stress Testing
  • Perform Data Validation, Data Integration and Backend/DB testing using SQL Queries manually.
  • Created Test input requirements and prepared the test data for data driven testing.
  • Mentored, trained staff about Tech Guide & Company Standards. Set-up and Coordinate Onsite offshore teams, Conduct Knowledge Transfer sessions to the offshore team.

Lloyds Bank, UK Aug 03 – Sept 04

Business Analyst

Lloyds TSB is leader in Business, Personal and Corporate Banking. Noted financial provider for millions of customers with the financial resources to meet and manage their credit needs and to achieve their financial goals. The Project involves an applicant Information System, Loan Appraisal and Loan Sanction, Legal, Disbursements, Accounts, MIS and Report Modules of a Housing Finance System and Enhancements for their Internet Banking.

Responsibilities:

  • Translated stakeholder requirements into various documentation deliverables such as functional specifications, use cases, workflow / process diagrams, data flow / data model diagrams.
  • Produced functional specifications and led weekly meetings with developers and business units to discuss outstanding technical issues and deadlines that had to be met.
  • Coordinated project activities between clients and internal groups and information technology, including project portfolio management and project pipeline planning.
  • Provided functional expertise to developers during the technical design and construction phases of the project.
    • Documented and analyzed business workflows and processes. Present the studies to the client for approval
    • Participated in Universe development – planning, designing, Building, distribution, and maintenance phases.
    • Designed and developed Universes by defining Joins, Cardinalities between the tables.
      • Created UML use case, activity diagrams for the interaction between report analyst and the reporting systems.
      • Successfully implemented BPR and achieved improved Performance, Reduced Time and Cost.
      • Developed test plans and scripts; performed client testing for routine to complex processes to ensure proper system functioning.
      • Worked closely with UAT Testers and End Users during system validation, User Acceptance Testing to expose functionality/business logic problems that unit testing and system testing have missed out.
        • Participated in Integration, System, Regression, Performance, and UAT – Using TD, WR, Load Runner
        • Participated in defect review meetings with the team members. Worked closely with the project manager to record, track, prioritize and close bugs. Used CVS to maintain versions between various stages of SDLC.

Client: A.G. Edwards, St. Louis, MO May’ 2005 – Feb’ 2006

Profile: Sr. Business Analyst/System Analyst

Project Profile: A.G. Edwards is a full service Trading based brokerage firm in Internet-based futures, options and forex brokerage. This site allows Users (Financial Representative) to trade online. The main features of this site were: Users can open new account online to trade equitiies, bonds, derivatives and forex with the Trading system using DTCC’s applications as a Clearing House agent. The user will get real-time streaming quotes for the currency pairs they selected, their current position in the forex market, summary of work orders, payments and current money balances, P & L Accounts and available trading power, all continuously updating in real time via live quotes. The site also facilitates users to Place, Change and Cancel an Entry Order, Placing a Market Order, Place/Modify/Delete/Close a Stop Loss Limit on an Open Position.

Responsibilities:

  • Gathered Business requirements pertaining to Trading, equities and Fixed Incomes like bonds, converted the same into functional requirements by implementing the RUP methodology and authored the same in Business Requirement Document (BRD).
  • Designed and developed all Narrative Use Cases and conducted UML modeling like created Use Case Diagrams, Process Flow Diagrams and Activity Diagrams using MS Visio.
  • Implemented the entire Rational Unified Process (RUP) methodology of application development with its various workflows, artifacts and activities. Developed business process models in RUP to document existing and future business processes. Established a business Analysis methodology around the Rational Unified Process.
  • Analyzed user requirements, attended Change Request meetings to document changes and implemented procedures to test changes.
  • Assisted in developing project timelines/deliverables/strategies for effective project management.
  • Evaluated existing practices of storing and handling important financial data for compliance.
  • Involved in developing the test strategy and assisted in developed Test scenarios, test conditions and test cases
  • Partnered with the technical areas in the research, resolution of system and User Acceptance Testing (UAT).

Environment: Windows XP/2000/NT, SOX, MS Office Suite, SQL, MS SQL Server, XML, HTML, Java, J2EE, JSP, Oracle, WinRunner, Test Director

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