Abstract The paper explains that activity-based costing (ABC) allows accountants to obtain a more precise view of the costs associated with specific products or services. This paper uses a case analysis to explore how ABC can help to achieve greater cost effectiveness in the healthcare industry. The paper concludes that although ABC can play an important role in reducing healthcare costs, little can be done to reduce direct costs associated with a procedure without a sacrifice of patient safety.
Outline:
Introduction
Objective of the paper
Analysis, Findings & Discussion
Suggestions, Recommendations & Conclusions
From the Paper "Activity-Based Costing (ABC) allocates the costs of production to specific products or services. It is more precise than older methods of accounting that involved adding a broad percentage of expenditures to direct and indirect costs. The definitions of direct and indirect costs varied and were often a judgement call on the part of the accountant. ABC allowed accountants to obtain a more precise view of the costs associated with specific products or services."
Abstract This paper stresses that businesses want the most costefficient database that can still do a very good job; therefore, Microsoft Access is almost out of the question for large database needs because it slows down when it holds too much data and is best suited and made for small data needs. The author states that the most important criteria is budgetary constrains: Microsoft Access costs roughly $200 while Oracle Enterprise costs $40,000, Microsoft SQL Server enterprise costs $20,000 and DB2 is about $25,000. The paper relates that any database security plan should start with the server and network and provide prevention, detection, response, authentication, authorization, table access and auditing.
Table of Contents
Databases
Overview
List of Important Criteria When Choosing the Right Database
Reasons for These Criteria
Budget Criteria
Data Needs Criteria
Functionality Criteria
Security Criteria
Operating System Support Criteria
Business Model Criteria
Administration and Ease of Use Criteria
Federal Compliance Criteria
Upgrades/Modifications Criteria
Collaboration Criteria
Review
From the Paper "The data needs of the business are important when choosing the right DB. For instance, MS Access, although cheap, would be best suited for very small businesses or low data needs. On the other hand, large organizations with large data needs should use the industrial strength DBs like DB2 and Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server. DB2 and Oracle are better suited for the really large data needs. For example: MS Access can hold 2GB of data; SQL Server can hold 1,048,516 TB of data."
Tags:cost-efficient, small-business, security-plan, speed, function
Abstract The paper discusses the growing amount of carbon dioxide emissions that automobiles release into the atmosphere, causing global warming. The paper also looks at the growing need for less costly public transportation due to high gas prices. The paper then considers doubling gas prices and creating a low cost or free public transportation system that would allow limit air pollution. The paper shows the importance of cities implementing costefficient and clean forms of fuel within their public transportation policies.
From the Paper "The current issues surrounding global warming is being directed at the growing amount of C02 emissions that automobiles release into the atmosphere. At the current rate of global warming the statistics relate that the planet is getting 1 degree warmer every year human beings release these dangerous fumes into the air. For the past ten years Earth has been decidedly becoming a warmer place to live. However, global warming does not necessarily mean warmer air or climates, but is usually related to warmer oceans. Some biological experts feel that warmer oceans contributed to the 23 Atlantic hurricanes of 2005, as well as to the reduction of natural habitats for animals near the polar circles that will become extinct if carbon Monoxide continues to melt the ice caps."
Abstract This paper describes the many functional requirements of a port, the basic facilities it must have, and the operational facilities needed so that it can be most effective and costefficient. The paper also describes some of the major costs associated with running a port and explains the differences between dry bulk carriers and container carriers.
From the Paper "A definition of the dry bulk carrier should start from the particular elements forming the concept, dry and bulk. Bulk cargo is "a shipment such as oil, grain, or one which is not packaged, bundled, bottled, or otherwise packed and is loaded without count" or, simply put, "commodities carried in bulk" . In this sense, there are two types of bulk carriers, dry bulk carriers and liquid bulk carriers. The former refer to such goods as grain, ore, minerals, etc., practically anything that is not liquid. The liquid bulk carriers are generally referred to as tankers and are used for crude oil."
Abstract The paper analyzes Chris Murphy's article "What's Next" that focuses on current IT outsourcing practice and Lee and Margaret Covell's article "A Strategic Approach to Overhead Management" that discusses operations cost-cutting. The paper then looks at Joseph Bozada's article "Generating Shareholder Value: Much More Than Cost Cutting" that suggests that worker layoffs might be counter-productive and finally, the paper examines the editorial in the Measuring Business Excellence magazine that explains how improved cost-efficiency can also be achieved through an innovative use of accounting and financial processes. The paper notes that all four authors agree that companies need to look beyond such traditional cost-cutting methods as layoffs, outsourcing and downsizing.
Outline:
Introduction
Analysis: New Perspectives on Outsourcing and Operations Cost Cutting
Analysis: Novel Approaches to Cost Cutting
Conclusion
From the Paper "In today's challenging business environment, companies are considering cost-cutting strategies more often than just a couple of years ago. There are three well-established methods of cost cutting: downsizing, outsourcing and cutting the costs of operations (Crampton & Hodge, 2007, p.341). Managers usually turn to one or a combination of these strategies during difficult economic times and/or situations of company underperformance. However, according to many analysts, such behavior might be counterproductive and even dangerous (Bozada, 2004, p.17). While hasty layoffs and downsized operations might improve the immediate financial situation, in the longer term they might create a strategic disadvantage and even cut into future revenue gains. According to Bozada, this happens because "This approach primarily focuses on cost cutting and will, by definition, only produce limited results" (p.17). What is needed therefore is a strategic and innovative approach to the concept of cost cutting."
Abstract This paper presents a step by step guide for a hospital for implementing changes which will make the system run more smoothly, minimize wasted resources and be more cost-efficient. The program is laid out in five steps - 1. Amalgamate acquirement receiving with copy cataloging; 2. Combining complicated copy cataloging, copy-assisted cataloging, and some record maintenance; 3.Consolidating original monograph cataloging units; move responsibility for pub recall; 4.Digital initiative support and 5.Consolidate database management.
From the Paper "The objectives of this change plan are few and to the point. The need for this change arose when we felt the need for this new department due to the loss of work. In order to make the hospital a more manageable place and for its records to be easily available to doctors and nurses the following points must be taken in view. The flow of work as we lose staff through attrition, reassignment, retirement, etc. The staff has to be moved in a staff development direction, i.e., to broaden skills for future flexibility within and outside of the hospital."
Abstract The paper looks at three methods of funding long-term healthcare, none of which are effective for those of middle and lower financial status. The paper researches what reform measures are required to achieve higher quality, costefficiency and consumer satisfaction. The paper therefore examines the viable alternatives to long-term care financing by examining self-pay, private insurance and the Medicaid system. The paper provides a literature search and recommends alternative sources of funding.
Outline:
Executive summary
Introduction
Research question
Methodology
Results/Discussion
Recommendations
Conclusion
From the Paper "The financial ability to provide for long-term care (LTC) services comes from one of three sources: private pay, long-term care private insurance or from public programs such as Medicaid ("Insider's guide," 2001). LTC is a topic few aging adults want to think about, however, statistics state by 2030 70 million people will be 65 years of age or older, more than double the number of senior citizens in 1999 (Moses, 2002a). Other statistics state that if an individual lives to 65 years of age or older, a 48 percent probability exists the individual will be placed in a nursing home with a coexisting 71.8% risk for the need to utilize home health care (Health Insurance Association of America, 1997 as cited by "Insider's guide," 2001)."
Abstract The paper describes malpractice lawsuits as the threat of being held financially and professionally accountable for some observed and possibly human error in a high stress occupation with urgent conditions. The paper lists the four prerequisite elements in the specific legal standard of negligence that has evolved to prove culpability and notes how contrary to common perceptions, the law regarding negligence does tend towards protecting nurses. The paper discusses the use of settlements and how they make nurses look guilty or negligent at a level which is very likely disproportionate and unfair. The paper further discusses how hospitals' costefficiency standards may limit a nurse's ability to do her best and leave her more open to malpractice suits. The paper concludes with the hope that negligence suits will serve the purpose that they were originally meant for: to protect and compensate patients for nurses that are truly negligent.
From the Paper "Nursing malpractice is primarily a legal issue, and a legal interpretation in its current form. This is not to say that it exists only in legal context, but to assert that malpractice in society has evolved through its definition by legal standards, and has become relevant to the workplace of the nurse because the legal ramifications, where the nurse can be held culpable for her action, or lack of actions, that result in the death, injury or failure to recover from a patient she treats. It brings into play a whole other level of liability and credibility for the nurse, who is not a legal expert, merely a public servant who has made a personal commitment to a social calling where she is attempting to do their best to heal and save those who have been injured or fallen sick before they ever see her."
Abstract This paper examines activity based costing (ABC) which is an effective business management tool that will enhance and support a total quality management (TQM) environment. ABC analysis provides the information necessary to make business decisions such as determining if investments in efficiency initiatives, such as just in time (JIT), are warranted. When implementing ABC, management should use proven project management methodology to minimize the risk of failure. ABC is an effective total quality management tool, and supports just-in-time manufacturing methods in several companies as detailed in the paper.
From the Paper "After developing ABC in the 1980?s, Robin Cooper and Robert S. Kaplan have written extensively about its benefits (Shih-Jen & Holinda, p. 46). ABC is defined as a "costing system that identifies the various activities performed in a firm and uses multiple cost drivers"to assign overhead (or indirect costs) to products? (Siegel and Shim 2000, p. 15). ABC seeks to accumulate and allocate factory overhead costs to products (or services) by using focused drivers, such as, quality inspecting, moving, assembly, and matching (Warren, 2002, p. 328). Proponents of ABC cite many examples where cost accuracy is superior to traditional costing methods that use cost bases such as units produced, labor, or machine hours used (Warren, p. 421). "
Abstract This paper examines how one of the latest applications of information technology to organizational functions is the development of formal training programs that are delivered through the Internet or through organizational intranets otherwise known as web-based training. It proposes a research study to study the effectiveness and efficiency of these training programs in comparison to traditional organizational training.
Outline
General Background to the Study
Purpose of the Study and Target Audience
Statement of the Problem
Overview of the Remainder of the Proposal
Review of the Literature
Introduction
The Nature of Training and its Importance to the Organization
Traditional Training Programs
Traditional Training Techniques
Moving to a New Training Paradigm
Computer-Based Training
Preparing for Web-Based Training
Web-Based Training
Web-Based Training in Practice
Technological Considerations Related to Web-Based Training
Importance of Evaluating Training
Evaluating Web-Based Training
Conclusion
Methodology
Introduction
Population and Sample
Instrumentation
Data Collection
Analysis of the Data
Conclusions
Schedule
Appendix
Survey Questionnaire
From the Paper "Most organizations recognize the value of training; however, the contemporary business environment, as a consequence of globalization and other factors, dictates that these organizations structure training in the most cost-efficient way possible (?Training Trends to Cost Effectiveness,? 1997). For some organizations, the most cost-effective approach to obtaining high-quality training is through outsourcing, which increasingly may involve Internet-based training. Many organizations outsourcing training have ?been impressed with the results. Rather than keeping program designers, administrators and trainers on staff, they have worked with outside trainers who act as an off-site training department. These off-site providers partner with clients to perform a whole range of duties from assessing training needs, to designing appropriate solutions and providing administrative support."
Tags:cost-efficient, site, information, technology, internet
This paper looks that the Efficient Market Hypothesis, Stock market and investment procedures and how investors should act within the market, also answering key questions such as the definition and explanation of the concept of an Efficient Stock Market.
2,150 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 15 sources, 2002, $ 80.95
Abstract This paper looks that the Efficient Market Hypothesis, Stock market and investment procedures and how investors should act within the market, also answering key questions such as the definition and explanation of the concept of an Efficient Stock Market. Also addresses the approach (active or passive) that equity fund managers operating in advanced capitalist countries should adopt.
Tags: BUSINESS / MARKETING AND ADVERTISING, efficient market hypothesis
Abstract The paper discusses a sample project for constructing an efficient frontier using six asset classes. The paper includes graphs for two efficient frontiers.
Abstract This paper considers the relatively new costing model called activity-based costing, developed in the 1980s and then refined through use by various organizations since. This approach is designed to focus attention on the causes behind indirect costs. The ABC system is directed largely at the issue of allocation, placing an emphasis on activities rather than traditional organizational departments as a way of isolating the causes of costs, or the factors that are most likely to cause or contribute to the accumulation of costs.
From the Paper "Activity Based Costing (ABC) was developed in the 1980s and has been refined through use by various organizations since. This approach is designed to focus attention on the causes behind indirect costs. The ABC system is directed largely at the issue of allocation, placing an emphasis on activities rather than traditional organizational departments as a way of isolating the causes of costs, or the factors that are most likely to cause or contribute to the accumulation of costs (Lewis, 1993, 12). The elements of this system can be applied to the working of a given business to help identify what may be driving costs upward. ABC can also be described as "a costing model that identifies the cost pools, or activity centers, in an organization and assigns costs to products and services (cost drivers) based on the number of events or transactions involved in the process of providing a product or..."
An overview of the methods of applying the "activity-based costing system" at Dakota Office Supply, in which actual costs associated with each product are established.
Abstract The paper discusses, in a detailed description, the effectiveness of an activity-based costing system or ABC and the ineffectiveness of the current costing system in use at the Dakota Office Supply (DOS) company . The paper then relates the methodology of implementing ABC at DOS and the procedures involved in its application.
Outline:
Overview
Situational analysis
Activity based costing ABC in practice at Dakota
Procedural steps of ABC
From the Paper "Before performing ABC, a baseline or a starting point is needed for business process improvement and a baseline can be expressed in some form of model. This baseline is critical for DOP because in order to establish this baseline metric the analytics just performed must be done for each individual account. If DOP performs this activity on each customer the strategic management benefits would be substantial because all the excess cost-drivers could be eliminated resulting in much wider operating margins and thus profitability without increasing costs or committing resources to gain this efficiency. Therefore, a baseline is a documentation of the organization's policies, practices, methods, measures, costs and their interrelationships at a particular location at a particular point in time (Maiga & Jacobs, 2003). Through base-lining, activity inputs and outputs across functional lines of business can be identified. ABC is the only improvement methodology that provides output or unit costs. Value added activities are those for which the customers are usually willing to pay in some fashion for the product or service. Non-value added are activities that create waste, result in a delay of some sort, and potentially adds costs to the products or services. Resources are assigned to activities so that the activities can be performed in the first place. Some of Pilgrims' resources are measured in man-hours, machine hours as well as machine maintenance and operational overhead. It is through ABC that an organization can begin to see actual dollar costs against individual activities, and find opportunities to streamline or reduce those costs, or even eliminate the entire activity thus removing the cost altogether. This is the process inherent in ABC that reduces overall expenditures of the company. "
Discusses a costing system proposed for a computer hardware manufacturer who is also going to develop computer software to be sold along with the hardware.
Abstract This paper first recommends a costing system and then states how variances from budget would be identified. It further goes to state how the budgets for the cost centers should be set. Then it mentions some possible sources of funds for financing the project and, in conclusion, mentions how the financial ratios of the company will be affected.
Method of costing How variances can be identified
Method of budgeting
Sources of finance
Effect on ratios
Comparison with system in operation
From the Paper "There are many methods of costing that could be applied to this scenario. The current system in place is absorption costing. This is a very traditional approach, in which it is assumed that the total overhead expenses of the company are related in some way to the number of labour hours or machine hours used. In this case, all the overheads are allocated on one basis. If labour hours are used, then it the total overhead amount is divided by the total labour hours expected, and then the amount of overhead is allocated to each product based on the total amount of labour hours it uses."
