Abstract This paper discusses the proper accountingtreatment for goodwill under GAAP, and specifically under the Financial Accounting Standards Board's FASB 142. The author addresses the views of the FASB as well as the SEC and the AICPA about this new method of accounting for intangible assets. The paper states that goodwill and other intangible assets may no longer be amortized over a specified hypothetical useful life or using straight line amortization.
From the Paper "The Financial Accounting Standards Board FASB statement on goodwill and other intangible assets addresses how intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of other assets should be accounted for in the acquiring company's financial statements subsequent to their initial recognition. Under FAS, goodwill and certain intangible assets will no longer be amortized over a specified hypothetical useful life. In addition, goodwill and other intangible assets will no longer be amortized using straight line amortization meaning the amount of amortization will probably not be ..."
Abstract This paper reviews qualitative and quasi-experimental research concerning treatment for sex offenders. With this review, comes an understanding that further investigation into research literature concerning the treatment of sex offenders is needed, to give a more comprehensive picture of the effectiveness of treatment interventions.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Methodology
Theoretical Background
Organic Approach to Treatment of Sex Offenders
Thames Valley Circles of Support and Accountability Treatment Programs for Juvenile Sexual Offenders
Policy Implications
From the Paper "In addition, substance abuse is another significant factor. In one study, a group of sexual and non-sexual offenders were compared and it was determined that there was a higher incidence of substance abuse in those who had committed sexual offenses. As part of a follow-up, Abracen, Looman, DiFazio, Kelly, and Stirpe (2006) note that the sexual offenders that received sex offender treatment as well as substance abuse treatment reported generally lower levels of recidivism."
This paper discuses the problems created by the International Accounting Standard (IAS) 38, which prescribes the accountingtreatment for intangible assets such as products of the company's research.
Abstract This paper explains that the balance sheet provides next to no use in reporting the increasingly significant intangible assets of business entities. The author points out that intangible assets, such as a highly-talented workforce who generate more revenue, represent the major value-drivers of today's economy. The paper relates that attempts to modify the traditional accounting approach have not kept pace with the changes brought bought by these intangibles. The author believes that the new rules penalize the companies, which have experienced a loss of value in their intangible assets through write-offs that immediately reduce earnings. The paper states that the best solution is to recognize intangible assets in the financial statement including the ones developed in-house; however, entities must report the future performance of their intangible assets or their earning potential before they are tested for possible impairment.
Table of Contents:
IAS 38: Intangible Assets
Accounting Rules Fell Short in Valuing Intangibles
Goodwill & Intangibles
Consequences of New Rules
Summary
From the Paper "Most companies have avoided to report in a comprehensive way about their intangible assets as well as the total performance which includes any significant decrease in the value of the intangibles. These rights and the obligation to regularly valuate goodwill and intangible assets represent a major change in disclosure practice and will affect the behavior of both the managers and investors. When America Online and Time Warner merged, this merger quickly showed how goodwill accounting changes can affect shareholders' interest, and exposed the misjudgments of managers."
Abstract The paper shows that the increased globalization of companies has led to a dilemma for investors because accounting standards in various capital markets are not always reliable. It shows too that in an effort to increase the reliability of financial information in capital markets the SEC seeks to maintain the high quality of financial reporting in the U.S., while working towards establishing a high quality financial reporting structure worldwide. This paper summarizes the issues presented in the SEC's concept release on International Accounting Standards. These issues include: the five elements of global financial reporting; exceptions to rules for foreign private issuers using accounting standards that differ from GAAP; and the three criteria for assessing the International Accounting Standards Committee.
From the Paper "Rigorously interpreted and applied: The development of high standards does not ensure that the standards will be upheld. In order for the standards to be practiced consistently accountants have to understand the responsibility they have in applying these standards consistently and in a manner that is needed to ensure high quality. This understanding only comes when regulators including auditors, rigorously interpret and apply these standards to accounting standards around the globe. The SEC contends that IASC standards are not used in many capital markets, which makes it impossible for them to be interpreted or applied. In addition countries that do utilize IASC standards have yet to incorporate the new changes created by the IASC."
Abstract This paper analyzes the factors necessary for a managerial accountant to succeed in an independent practice and within a larger organization. The author emphasizes that managerial accountants must set the standard for communication within their practices, particularly in regard to strategic issues and relationships between other accountants in their practice. Additionally, the paper shows that managerial accountants must be linked organizationally to the accounting department that they support, which includes training end users to become more proficient in interpreting financial documents. The author concludes that more research is needed in the area of managerial accounting communication so that managers responsible for making training decisions and communicating on a continual basis will have enough tools with which to base their decisions.
Outline:
Introduction to Communication within the Accounting Profession
Leadership over the Managerial Accountant Leadership by the Managerial Accountant Decision-Making by the Managerial Accountant Staff Motivation through Communication by the Managerial Accountant Communication and Compensation
Outside Training
Management Priorities by the Managerial Accountant Communicating Expectations of Staff
Marketing
The Communication of Ethical Standards
Conclusion
From the Paper "As a result, managerial accountants must be flexible to change and adaptation, and those with a broad spectrum of behavioral understanding in addition to financial skills are more properly suited for their positions. This includes a communication medium that reaches the intended audience efficiently and effectively. This paper will analyze the correlation between managerial accountants and their means of communication necessary for their practice to thrive. It will also provide recommendations throughout that managerial accountants can incorporate into their practice in order to bring the profession as a whole to a new level of success."
This paper defines the term accounting ratios and details why they are a significant tool applied by accountants when presenting accounting statements.
Abstract The writer of this paper examines the importance of accounting ratios in business. Accounting ratios illustrate the present as well as the prospective, so that shareholders can visualize how much gain a business attained, the total worth of the assets and the level of cash reserves available. This well-researched paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of accounting ratios. One significant drawback of the accounting ratio is that it depends too heavily on the conventional costs that lead to twists in quantifying performance. Ratios are required to be represented meticulously. They can entail the evidences to the performance of the company or financial environment. However, they are unable to demonstrate whether the performance is good or bad out their own. The writer details the manner in which the final figures of accounting ratios are achieved, while discussing the fact that these ratios necessitate some quantitative information for an informed analysis to be made. The writer contends and clearly explains why accounting ratios are completely dependent on the supplied data which may or may not be accurate.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "A markedly low accounts ratio may give rise to angry suppliers and remarkably high inventory turnover ratios may lead to supply shortages and angry customers. The one that is correct for one company may not be considered appropriate for another one. Besides, no two companies are found to be similar irrespective of the fact that they are competitors in the same industry or market. Application of ratios to evaluate one company with another provides misleading information. Businesses may be within the same industry but have distinguished financial and business risk. Ratios are completely dependent on the data that may or may not be accurate."
Abstract This paper examines the future of accounting by investigating current and future trends. This includes considering the changes in the work environment for accounting employees, trends in accounting roles and future opportunities for accountants, and future skills of accountants that will be in high demand. Considering these three areas shows where business accounting is heading and how best accounting professionals can prepare for these changes.
From the Paper "The business world is in a period of change, with accounting a major part of that business world. As one report says, "Accounting is the language of business. It is and always will be the analysis of how money is used by businesses, nonprofit organizations, governments and individuals" (Insight). As the business world changes, accounting must change to continue to meets the needs of businesses. This is one of the areas that will greatly influence the future of management accounting. To understand this issue further, the current and future trends in accounting will be investigated. This includes considering the changes in the work environment for accounting employees, trends in accounting roles and future opportunities for accountants, and future skills of accountants that will be in high demand. Considering these three areas will show where business accounting is headed and how best accounting professionals can prepare for these changes."
Abstract This analysis identifies several expected changes in the field of accounting. These include that the reporting of financial information will become more strictly regulated; that the reporting of financial information will involve international regulations and standards; that accounting departments will have an international aspect to their operations; that information technology will impact on the role of the accounting department; that the accounting department will provide more diverse information; and that the skills and functions required of accountants will increase.
From the Paper "Accounting has always been related to measuring the activities of the business and reporting those activities in suitable ways. Financial statements are created not only to tell the business how it is functioning, but also to pass that information on to shareholders and other interested third parties. This is the task of disclosing financial information and it is a crucial one. One source notes that the primary goal of financial accounting is to provide information to external users of accounting information. Most major organizations are supported by shareholders."
Abstract In this article the writer discusses the two unique sub-functions within the accounting field: managerial accounting and financial accounting. The specific functions, responsibilities and duties of each function are discussed in relation to the broader field of accounting. Further consideration is given to the income statement and balance sheet and how they are related. Finally, the use of accounting principles and techniques in managerial decision-making is also discussed. The document concludes with a brief overview of accounting.
From the Paper "Accounting within the business sphere is largely divided into two separate divisions: financial and managerial accountants. The presence of financial accountants and management accountants in most large corporations today is a testament to the complexity of the global economy, the legal and governance rules an entity must operate under, and the sheer amount of information the profession must deal with on a daily basis. The importance of accounting as a basic function of business activity cannot be overstated."
Abstract Perhaps one of the most prominent discussions involving accounting has to do with the differences between financial and management accounts. Some regard these differences to be a question of legality. Companies are required by law to submit financial statements based on certain requirements. On the other hand, management accounting can be structured to suit the needs of the company. However, the fact that firms can structure their management accounting statements according to their needs might lead one to suggest that major differences between these two systems relate to practicality. With this in mind, it is hypothesised that while legal issues are important for determining the differences between financial and management accounting they are not the only considerations, one must also consider the extent to which practical considerations contribute to the development of these differences.
Abstract This paper discusses the two unique sub-functions within the accounting field: managerial accounting and financial accounting. The specific functions, responsibilities and duties of each function are discussed. Further consideration is given to the ethical implications involved with each accounting division. Enron is mentioned as a prime example of how ethical considerations can not only undermine the financial solvency of a company but, ultimately, can cause its demise.
From the Paper "The presence of financial accountants and management accountants in most large corporations today is a testament to the complexity of the global economy, the legal and governance rules an entity must operate under, and the sheer amount of information the profession must deal with on a daily basis. Though there are many functions that overlap within these two divisions of the same profession, each classification serves a uniquely strategic function. In general, financial accounting is responsible for the historical financial records and data of a company and is largely responsible for ensuring legal and regulatory compliance. Managerial accounting is responsible for providing interpretive reports of financial accounts which managers and executives use to make operational decisions and devise corporate strategy. "
Abstract This paper outlines the critical elements of treatment planning in psychotherapy. It also provides a hypothetical case and proposes a treatment plan for the incumbent. Issues addressed include the importance of treatment planning and vital aspects of a quality treatment plan. The author concludes that ultimately a good treatment plan can be evaluated by examining the patient's response to treatment goals and outcomes.
Outline:
Treatment Planning Defined
Relevance of Treatment Planning in Psychotherapy
Treatment Plan Overview
Stages of Treatment Planning
Characteristics of a Good Treatment Plan
Hypothetical Treatment Case - Depression
Conclusions
From the Paper "Bray, Falvey & Hebert (2005) define treatment planning, as a "frequent and universal judgment task" often required of mental health practitioners interested in promoting positive patient outcomes. During the treatment planning and conceptualization process, clinicians work to help problem solve and predict outcomes for patients using various clinical judgment strategies (Bray et al. 2005). This process while complex allows favorable outcomes for a majority of patients and improves clinical performance thus is vital to the success and well being not only of patients but also of the caregivers working with them (Bray, et al. 2005). "
Abstract This paper is a personal exposition of the author's career ambition to be a certified public accountant. The author describes the growth of the accounting industry and the area in which he hopes to specialize. Also examined are the author's perceived weaknesses in his skill set for being an accountant and how he feel these deficiencies can be overcome. He also states his strengths and how these will be beneficial in his career. The author concludes that by overcoming his weaknesses and adding to his strengths, it is possible to gain all of the tools for successful public accounting.
From the Paper "There are many different skills necessary to become a well rounded and successful public accountant. These skills include technical knowledge, attention to detail, and interpersonal communication. I have attempted to master all three of these skills through my daily life by consistently practicing and focusing on the importance of these three skills. By overcoming my weaknesses and adding to my strengths, I fully believe that I will soon gain all of the tools for successful public accounting."
Abstract This paper names and describes the many bodies that influence Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Generally Accepted Accounting Standards (GAAS) in the United States. Included in this paper are regulatory boards such as the the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC), the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). The author describes the role of each of these regulatory bodies as well as defines their functions and influence on each other.
From the Paper "The SEC is ultimately responsible for the enforcement of securities law. As a result, they are the main body through which investigations into accounting fraud are conducted. One of the tools they use are comment letters, which are sent to companies suspected of impropriety requesting comment from the company. The comment letters can precede the initiation of legal proceedings."
Abstract The author introduces the topic by discussing the modern day needs of society to have accountants and how their importance is often overlooked. He then recounts the earliest known form of accounting and how it has developed over the years, stating many examples of where it is necessary to have good accounting skills and how these skills were developed. The paper concludes with what the future can bring for the accounting world.
From the Paper "Methods of accountancy were somewhat modernized during the Renaissance in Italy, where Arabic numerals had been introduced long before for financial purposes; Luca Pacioli's Summa de Arithmetica, Geometria, Proportioni et Proportionalita (1494)
is viewed as a crucial work in determining the course of Renaissance, and eventually modern, accounting. While Benedetto Cotrugli had invented the double-entry system of accounting before the publication of the Summa, Pacioli's methods greatly expanded on these ideas, containing 36 chapters on bookkeeping and earning the rare distinction of publication. "
