"The World Made Straight" is a novel by Ron Rash that tells the story of Leonard Shuler, a young man living in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina in the 1970s. The novel is set against the backdrop of the region's tumultuous history, including the Civil War, the timber and tobacco industries, and the ongoing struggles of the working class.
At the beginning of the novel, Leonard is a high school dropout who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is drawn to the illicit world of marijuana farming, and begins working for a local dealer named Carlton Toomey. Leonard is drawn to the easy money and the sense of belonging that the drug trade provides, but he also struggles with feelings of guilt and the fear of getting caught.
As Leonard becomes more involved in the drug trade, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world around him. He witnesses the brutality of the drug business and the corruption that pervades every level of society. He also begins to understand the deep-seated injustices that have shaped his community, including the exploitation of the working class and the ongoing effects of the Civil War.
Despite these challenges, Leonard is able to find hope and redemption through his relationships with the other characters in the novel. He forms close bonds with his mentor, a former Vietnam War veteran named Travis, and with a young woman named Maddy, who helps him see the world in a different light. With their help, Leonard is able to confront his own demons and begin to build a better life for himself.
Ultimately, "The World Made Straight" is a powerful and moving story about the struggle for identity and the search for meaning in a world that is often harsh and unforgiving. Through the experiences of Leonard and the other characters, the novel offers a poignant commentary on the human condition and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
Technology has had a significant impact on the field of human resource management (HRM). In recent years, HR technology has become an integral part of HR departments and has helped HR professionals streamline various processes, improve efficiency, and make data-driven decisions.
One of the main areas where HR technology has been widely adopted is in the recruitment process. Online job portals, applicant tracking systems (ATS), and video interviews have made it easier for HR professionals to attract and screen candidates. ATS software helps HR professionals to track job applications, schedule interviews, and manage resumes and other documents. Video interviews allow HR professionals to interview candidates remotely, saving time and resources.
HR technology has also been used to automate various HR processes such as employee onboarding, performance management, and payroll. HR professionals can use online tools to create and manage employee records, track employee performance, and process payroll and benefits. These tools help HR professionals to save time and reduce the risk of errors.
Another important aspect of HR technology is its ability to gather and analyze data. HR professionals can use data analytics tools to track employee performance, identify trends and patterns, and make data-driven decisions. For example, HR professionals can use data analytics to identify the most effective recruitment channels, understand employee turnover patterns, and identify the training and development needs of employees.
In conclusion, technology has had a significant impact on the field of HRM. It has helped HR professionals to streamline various processes, improve efficiency, and make data-driven decisions. HR technology will continue to play a key role in HRM in the future, and HR professionals will need to stay up-to-date with the latest technology to remain competitive.
