Some Key Content Flashcards

(245 cards)

1
Q

What is a cash flow forecast?

A

A document created to help predict the cash inflows and cash outflows of a business over a period of time

Cash flow forecasts are essential for financial planning and management.

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2
Q

What are the benefits of a cash flow forecast?

A
  • Helps with planning
  • Monitoring
  • Control
  • Target setting
  • Identifies periods of difficulty
  • Can be used as part of a business plan to help raise finance

These benefits aid businesses in managing their finances effectively.

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3
Q

What are the drawbacks of a cash flow forecast?

A
  • Based on a forecast so could be inaccurate
  • Doesn’t take into account unexpected events
  • Time taken to create could be spent elsewhere

Inaccuracies can lead to poor financial decisions.

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4
Q

How can a business improve cash flow?

A
  • Reduce time given to customers to pay
  • Delay paying suppliers
  • Use a debt factoring company
  • Use an overdraft or short-term loan
  • Sell assets
  • Try to cut unnecessary spending

These strategies can enhance a business’s liquidity.

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5
Q

What is the formula for net cash flow?

A

Net cash flow = Cash inflows - Cash outflows

This formula calculates the cash available after accounting for all inflows and outflows.

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6
Q

How is the closing balance calculated?

A

Closing balance = Opening balance + Net cash flow

This calculation shows the cash position at the end of a period.

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7
Q

What is the opening balance in a cash flow forecast?

A

Opening balance = Closing balance from previous period

The opening balance is crucial as it sets the starting point for the new period’s cash flow.

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8
Q

True or False: A cash flow forecast can help identify periods of difficulty such as a recession.

A

True

Recognizing potential financial challenges in advance allows for proactive management.

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9
Q

What is the break-even analysis?

A

An analysis of how many units a business must sell in order to not make a profit or a loss.

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10
Q

What are the benefits of break-even analysis?

A
  • Can be motivating to know how many units are needing to be sold.
  • Able to look at different levels of output/pricing as easy to calculate ‘what if’.
  • Good for planning and monitoring e.g. margin of safety.
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11
Q

What are the drawbacks of break-even analysis?

A
  • Doesn’t take into account variations in costs/selling price.
  • Having a target doesn’t mean it can be achieved.
  • If a high target, then it could be demotivating.
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12
Q

What is the formula for break-even output?

A

Fixed costs / Contribution per unit.

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13
Q

How do you calculate contribution per unit?

A

Selling price per unit - Variable cost per unit.

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14
Q

What is the formula for margin of safety?

A

Actual output - Break even output.

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15
Q

How can you improve break-even and margin of safety?

A
  • Lower fixed costs.
  • Increase contribution per unit - increase selling price or reduce variable cost (or both!).
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16
Q

Fill in the blank: Break even output is calculated as _______.

A

Fixed costs / Contribution per unit.

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17
Q

True or False: Break-even analysis considers variations in selling prices.

A

False.

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18
Q

What is the break-even analysis?

A

An analysis of how many units a business must sell in order to not make a profit or a loss.

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19
Q

What are the benefits of break-even analysis?

A
  • Can be motivating to know how many units are needing to be sold.
  • Able to look at different levels of output/pricing as easy to calculate ‘what if’.
  • Good for planning and monitoring e.g. margin of safety.
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20
Q

What are the drawbacks of break-even analysis?

A
  • Doesn’t take into account variations in costs/selling price.
  • Having a target doesn’t mean it can be achieved.
  • If a high target, then it could be demotivating.
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21
Q

What is the formula for break-even output?

A

Fixed costs / Contribution per unit.

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22
Q

How do you calculate contribution per unit?

A

Selling price per unit - Variable cost per unit.

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23
Q

What is the formula for margin of safety?

A

Actual output - Break even output.

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24
Q

How can you improve break-even and margin of safety?

A
  • Lower fixed costs.
  • Increase contribution per unit - increase selling price or reduce variable cost (or both!).
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25
Fill in the blank: Break even output is calculated as _______.
Fixed costs / Contribution per unit.
26
True or False: Break-even analysis considers variations in selling prices.
False.
27
What is a Statement of Comprehensive Income?
A document that records all a firm's revenues and costs within a past trading period, usually produced once a year ## Footnote This statement helps assess financial performance over a specific period.
28
What can a Statement of Comprehensive Income help identify?
Areas of high spending to then make adjustments e.g. cost of sales or overheads ## Footnote Identifying high spending areas allows for potential cost-cutting measures.
29
What financial ratios can be calculated using the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
Margins and markup ## Footnote These ratios help in understanding profitability relative to sales.
30
How can a Statement of Comprehensive Income assist in obtaining finance?
By identifying positive trends ## Footnote Positive trends can enhance credibility and attract investors or lenders.
31
What is a drawback of the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
It takes time to calculate/analyze ## Footnote The complexity and time required can hinder timely decision-making.
32
What is needed for the Statement of Comprehensive Income to be valuable?
A comparison to make it valuable e.g. previous years / competitors ## Footnote Contextual comparisons provide insight into performance trends.
33
What external factors can impact the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
Inflation ## Footnote Inflation affects costs and revenue, influencing overall profitability.
34
How can gross, operating, and net profit be improved?
Increase sales revenue / Lower cost of sales / Lower overheads ## Footnote These strategies focus on enhancing income and reducing expenses.
35
What is the formula for Gross Profit?
Revenue - Cost of sales ## Footnote Gross profit reflects the profitability before overheads and other expenses.
36
What is the formula for Operating Profit?
Gross profit - Overheads ## Footnote Operating profit indicates profitability from core business operations.
37
What is the formula for Profit for the Year (Net Profit)?
Operating profit +/ - Interest/Tax/One off costs ## Footnote Net profit provides a complete picture of a firm's profitability after all expenses.
38
What is a Statement of Comprehensive Income?
A document that records all a firm's revenues and costs within a past trading period, usually produced once a year ## Footnote This statement helps assess financial performance over a specific period.
39
What can a Statement of Comprehensive Income help identify?
Areas of high spending to then make adjustments e.g. cost of sales or overheads ## Footnote Identifying high spending areas allows for potential cost-cutting measures.
40
What financial ratios can be calculated using the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
Margins and markup ## Footnote These ratios help in understanding profitability relative to sales.
41
How can a Statement of Comprehensive Income assist in obtaining finance?
By identifying positive trends ## Footnote Positive trends can enhance credibility and attract investors or lenders.
42
What is a drawback of the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
It takes time to calculate/analyze ## Footnote The complexity and time required can hinder timely decision-making.
43
What is needed for the Statement of Comprehensive Income to be valuable?
A comparison to make it valuable e.g. previous years / competitors ## Footnote Contextual comparisons provide insight into performance trends.
44
What external factors can impact the Statement of Comprehensive Income?
Inflation ## Footnote Inflation affects costs and revenue, influencing overall profitability.
45
How can gross, operating, and net profit be improved?
Increase sales revenue / Lower cost of sales / Lower overheads ## Footnote These strategies focus on enhancing income and reducing expenses.
46
What is the formula for Gross Profit?
Revenue - Cost of sales ## Footnote Gross profit reflects the profitability before overheads and other expenses.
47
What is the formula for Operating Profit?
Gross profit - Overheads ## Footnote Operating profit indicates profitability from core business operations.
48
What is the formula for Profit for the Year (Net Profit)?
Operating profit +/ - Interest/Tax/One off costs ## Footnote Net profit provides a complete picture of a firm's profitability after all expenses.
49
What is the purpose of a Statement of Financial Position?
Records all a firm's revenues and costs within a past trading period
50
How often is a Statement of Financial Position usually produced?
Once a year
51
What does a Statement of Financial Position show regarding a business?
The actual worth of the business
52
Why is the actual worth of a business useful?
Useful when obtaining finance and for other stakeholders
53
What financial ratios can be calculated from a Statement of Financial Position?
Current/liquid capital
54
What does a Statement of Financial Position help determine about a business?
If the business is vulnerable to interest rate changes
55
What is a drawback of preparing a Statement of Financial Position?
Takes time to calculate/analyse
56
What is necessary for a Statement of Financial Position to be valuable?
Needs a comparison to make it valuable e.g. previous years / competitors
57
What type of information does a Statement of Financial Position primarily show?
Only shows quantitative information
58
How is net assets calculated?
Total assets - Total liabilities
59
What is the formula for net current assets (working capital)?
Current assets - Current liabilities
60
What does capital employed consist of?
Non-current liabilities + Total equity
61
What is the purpose of ratio analysis?
A technique for analysing financial performance by comparing two pieces of information ## Footnote Ratio analysis helps stakeholders assess the performance and success of a business.
62
What do profitability ratios measure?
Measures the success of the business ## Footnote Profitability ratios are key indicators of financial health.
63
How is the gross profit margin calculated?
Gross profit margin = Gross profit / Revenue × 100 ## Footnote This ratio indicates how much profit a company makes after deducting the cost of goods sold.
64
How is the operating profit margin calculated?
Operating profit margin = Operating profit / Revenue × 100 ## Footnote This ratio reflects the efficiency of a company's core business operations.
65
How is the net profit margin calculated?
Net profit margin = Net profit / Revenue × 100 ## Footnote This ratio shows the percentage of revenue that remains as profit after all expenses are paid.
66
What is the formula for return on capital employed (ROCE)?
ROCE = Operating profit / Capital employed × 100 ## Footnote ROCE measures a company's profitability and the efficiency with which its capital is employed.
67
What do liquidity ratios assess?
Assesses the ability to pay immediate debts ## Footnote Liquidity ratios are crucial for understanding short-term financial stability.
68
How is the current ratio calculated?
Current ratio = Current assets / Current liabilities ## Footnote This ratio indicates the company's ability to cover its short-term obligations.
69
How is the acid test ratio calculated?
Acid Test ratio = (Current assets - Inventory) / Current liabilities ## Footnote This ratio provides a more stringent measure of liquidity by excluding inventory.
70
List some benefits of ratio analysis.
* Stakeholders can judge performance/success of the business * Helps with planning and monitoring * Helps to obtain finance by including in a business plan * Helps to keep financial control ## Footnote These benefits make ratio analysis a valuable tool for businesses.
71
List some drawbacks of ratio analysis.
* Highlights problems but doesn't explain them * Could be outdated * Needs a comparison to make it valuable (e.g., previous years, competitors) * Only shows quantitative information * Doesn't account for market or economic conditions or other factors * Can be distorted, meaning figures could be misleading ## Footnote Understanding these drawbacks is crucial for interpreting ratio analysis accurately.
72
What is ratio analysis?
A technique for analysing financial performance by comparing two pieces of information.
73
What do profitability ratios measure?
The success of the business.
74
What is the formula for gross profit margin?
Gross profit / Revenue x 100
75
What is the formula for operating profit margin?
Operating profit / Revenue x 100
76
What is the formula for net profit margin?
Net profit / Revenue x 100
77
What does return on capital employed (ROCE) measure?
Operating profit / Capital employed x 100
78
What do liquidity ratios assess?
The ability to pay immediate debts.
79
What is the formula for current ratio?
Current assets / Current liabilities
80
What is the formula for acid test ratio?
Current assets - Inventory / Current liabilities
81
What are the benefits of ratio analysis?
* Stakeholders can judge performance/success of the business * Helps with planning and monitoring * Helps to obtain finance by including in a business plan * Helps to keep financial control
82
What are the drawbacks of ratio analysis?
* Highlights problems but doesn't explain them * Could be outdated * Needs a comparison to make it valuable (e.g., previous years / competitors) * Only shows quantitative information - doesn't account for market or economic conditions or other factors * Can be distorted, meaning figures could be misleading
83
What does GEARING measure?
The long term financial position of the business and where their funding comes from ## Footnote Gearing indicates the proportion of a company's funding that comes from debt versus equity.
84
What is the formula for calculating GEARING?
Non current liabilities / Capital employed x 100 ## Footnote Capital employed is calculated as Non current liabilities ÷ Total equity.
85
What are Non current liabilities?
Long term debts, e.g., bank loans ## Footnote These liabilities are obligations that are not due within the next year.
86
What is Total equity?
Money from other sources, e.g., shareholder investment ## Footnote Total equity represents the ownership interest in the company.
87
What does it mean if a company has over 50% gearing?
It is 'High geared', meaning most money comes from loans, which is very risky ## Footnote High gearing indicates vulnerability to interest rate changes.
88
What characterizes a 'Low geared' company?
Less than 25% gearing, meaning most money comes from the owners ## Footnote Low gearing suggests a lower risk profile.
89
What factors can influence a company's gearing level?
Owner risk aversion, interest rates, state of the economy ## Footnote These factors can determine the appropriateness of a company's gearing strategy.
90
What does RETURN ON CAPITAL EMPLOYED (ROCE) compare?
Profit with the amount of money invested in the business ## Footnote ROCE is an indicator of how efficiently a company uses its capital to generate profits.
91
What is the formula for calculating ROCE?
Operating profit / Capital employed × 100 ## Footnote Capital employed is the sum of Non current liabilities and Total equity.
92
What is the significance of a higher ROCE?
Higher is generally better ## Footnote However, ROCE should be analyzed alongside other information, such as competitor performance.
93
What should be considered alongside ROCE?
Other information, e.g., rivals' performance ## Footnote ROCE alone may not provide a complete picture of financial performance.
94
What does GEARING measure?
The long term financial position of the business and where their funding comes from ## Footnote Gearing indicates the proportion of a company's funding that comes from debt versus equity.
95
What is the formula for calculating GEARING?
Non current liabilities / Capital employed x 100 ## Footnote Capital employed is calculated as Non current liabilities ÷ Total equity.
96
What are Non current liabilities?
Long term debts, e.g., bank loans ## Footnote These liabilities are obligations that are not due within the next year.
97
What is Total equity?
Money from other sources, e.g., shareholder investment ## Footnote Total equity represents the ownership interest in the company.
98
What does it mean if a company has over 50% gearing?
It is 'High geared', meaning most money comes from loans, which is very risky ## Footnote High gearing indicates vulnerability to interest rate changes.
99
What characterizes a 'Low geared' company?
Less than 25% gearing, meaning most money comes from the owners ## Footnote Low gearing suggests a lower risk profile.
100
What factors can influence a company's gearing level?
Owner risk aversion, interest rates, state of the economy ## Footnote These factors can determine the appropriateness of a company's gearing strategy.
101
What does RETURN ON CAPITAL EMPLOYED (ROCE) compare?
Profit with the amount of money invested in the business ## Footnote ROCE is an indicator of how efficiently a company uses its capital to generate profits.
102
What is the formula for calculating ROCE?
Operating profit / Capital employed × 100 ## Footnote Capital employed is the sum of Non current liabilities and Total equity.
103
What is the significance of a higher ROCE?
Higher is generally better ## Footnote However, ROCE should be analyzed alongside other information, such as competitor performance.
104
What should be considered alongside ROCE?
Other information, e.g., rivals' performance ## Footnote ROCE alone may not provide a complete picture of financial performance.
105
What does the Current Ratio indicate?
It shows whether the business has enough resources to meet any short-term debts ## Footnote Current Ratio = Current assets / Current liabilities
106
What are Current Assets?
Things the business owns for less than a year, e.g. stock, cash ## Footnote Current assets include assets that are expected to be converted to cash or used within one year.
107
What are Current Liabilities?
A debt that has to be paid within a year, e.g. overdraft, trade payables ## Footnote Current liabilities are obligations that a company needs to settle within one year.
108
What is the ideal Current Ratio?
Around 1.5:1 ## Footnote A ratio lower than this means not enough to meet debts, while higher indicates underutilization of assets.
109
What is the Acid Test Ratio?
A more severe test of liquidity that excludes stock from the equation ## Footnote Acid Test Ratio = (Current assets - Stock) / Current liabilities
110
Why is the Acid Test Ratio considered a harsher test?
Because stock is not guaranteed to be sold ## Footnote This ratio focuses on more liquid assets to determine if liabilities can be covered.
111
What is the ideal Acid Test Ratio?
Around 1:1 ## Footnote A ratio less than 1:1 means there are not enough current assets to cover current liabilities.
112
What is meant by Inventory?
Materials and finished goods, sometimes called stock ## Footnote Inventory refers to the goods and materials a business holds for the purpose of resale.
113
What is the primary benefit of using Benefris?
Helps with cash flow ## Footnote Benefris aids in forecasting cash flow, which is essential for effective financial management.
114
How does Benefris improve project efficiency?
By knowing start dates ## Footnote Having clear start dates allows for better planning and resource allocation.
115
What type of approach does Benefris promote among managers?
Systematic approach ## Footnote This approach encourages managers to consider all activities involved in a project.
116
What advantage does Benefris provide in terms of stakeholder communication?
Able to share info with stakeholders ## Footnote This includes updates on new launches and project progress.
117
What can be identified using Critical Path Analysis?
The critical path ## Footnote Identifying the critical path allows for close supervision of key project activities.
118
What does Critical Path Analysis (CPA) represent?
A diagram showing the minimum time needed to complete a project ## Footnote CPA is a vital project management tool for scheduling and resource allocation.
119
What is a drawback of using past data in CPA?
Could be inaccurate ## Footnote Relying on past data may not accurately reflect current project conditions.
120
What is a potential issue with large projects in CPA?
Could be too complex to put into CPA ## Footnote Complexity can make it difficult to accurately represent all project elements in CPA.
121
What is a consequence of setting tight deadlines in project management?
Could compromise quality ## Footnote Pressuring teams to meet deadlines may lead to rushed work and lower quality outcomes.
122
What external factors might disrupt project timelines?
External factors could disrupt ## Footnote These factors can include market changes, resource availability, and regulatory issues.
123
What is required for constructing or amending a Critical Path Analysis?
Can take a lot of planning and time ## Footnote Proper planning is essential to ensure all components are accurately represented.
124
Fill in the blank: Earliest Start Time is calculated by _______.
Add together working left to right ## Footnote This calculation helps determine when a task can earliest begin.
125
Fill in the blank: Latest Finish Time is calculated by _______.
Minus off working right to left ## Footnote This calculation helps determine the latest a task can be completed.
126
How is Total Float Time calculated?
Latest Finish Time - Duration - Earliest Start Time ## Footnote Total float time indicates how much flexibility there is in scheduling a task.
127
What is one benefit of using cash flow forecasting?
Helps with cash flow
128
How does cash flow forecasting improve efficiency?
Know start dates
129
What approach does cash flow forecasting promote among managers?
Systematic approach, forcing managers to think of all activities
130
Who can benefit from the information shared through cash flow forecasting?
Stakeholders e.g. new launches
131
What can be identified through Critical Path Analysis?
The critical path which can be closely supervised
132
What does a Critical Path Analysis diagram show?
The minimum time needed to complete a project
133
What is a drawback of using past data in Critical Path Analysis?
Could be inaccurate
134
Why might big projects be challenging for Critical Path Analysis?
Could be too complex to put into CPA
135
What is a potential consequence of setting tight deadlines in project management?
Could compromise quality
136
What external factors could disrupt a project in Critical Path Analysis?
External factors could disrupt
137
What is a challenge related to constructing or amending a Critical Path Analysis?
Can take a lot of planning and time
138
Fill in the blank: Earliest Start Time = Add together working _______ to right.
left
139
Fill in the blank: Latest Finish Time = Minus off working _______ to left.
right
140
What is the formula to calculate total float time?
Latest Finish Time - Duration - Earliest Start Time
141
What is a primary benefit of using decision trees?
Places numerical values on decisions for objectivity
142
In what type of situations are decision trees particularly effective?
Familiar situations where estimates are more accurate
143
What is a visual representation used in decision-making?
Decision trees
144
What is one drawback of decision trees?
Based on probabilities
145
What is a common limitation of decision trees?
Can be subjective based on the person making the tree
146
What is another limitation of decision trees regarding the type of outcomes they analyze?
Limited in use as success vs failure rather than short term/long term
147
What external factors do decision trees fail to consider?
Doesn't look at external factors
148
What type of data do decision trees rely on?
Only based on quantitative data
149
Fill in the blank: Expected value is calculated as Probability x _______.
[Financial outcome]
150
How do you calculate the total expected value in decision trees?
Add up the Expected Values for each option
151
What formula is used to determine net gain in decision trees?
Net gain = Total Expected Value - Cost of option
152
What was the expected value for Project A in the example provided?
81 million
153
What was the expected value for Project B in the example provided?
61.5 million
154
What is the expected value for a project if the probability is 0.6 and the financial outcome is £22 million?
Expected value = 0.6 x £22 million
155
What is the expected value for a project if the probability is 0.4 and the financial outcome is £30 million?
Expected value = 0.4 x £30 million
156
True or False: Decision trees can be time-consuming to create.
True
157
What is one benefit of quantitative sales forecasting?
Helps spot underlying patterns in data ## Footnote This benefit allows businesses to identify trends that may not be immediately apparent.
158
Name a drawback of quantitative sales forecasting.
Doesn't look at external factors ## Footnote External factors can significantly influence sales outcomes.
159
What does quantitative sales forecasting allow businesses to do?
Predict future sales based on historical data ## Footnote This method relies on past sales data to forecast future performance.
160
In what type of market is quantitative sales forecasting less effective?
Dynamic market ## Footnote Changes in consumer behavior or market conditions can render historical data less relevant.
161
True or False: Historical data always accurately predicts future sales.
False ## Footnote Historical data may not indicate future trends due to changing circumstances.
162
What is a moving average?
A method to smooth out fluctuations in data ## Footnote It is commonly used in sales forecasting to identify trends over time.
163
What does a three-period moving average involve?
Find the average of the 3 bits of data ## Footnote This technique helps to reduce the noise from random fluctuations.
164
What is the formula for a four-quarter moving average?
Add together four pieces of data, then divide by 8 ## Footnote This method helps in analyzing quarterly sales data over time.
165
What is a common issue with quantitative sales forecasting?
It can be time-consuming and complex ## Footnote The intricacies of data collection and analysis can require significant resources.
166
What is one good use of quantitative sales forecasting?
Looking at general trends ## Footnote This approach provides insights into overall sales patterns rather than specific predictions.
167
What is the main focus of quality control?
Checking and reviewing work that has already been done ## Footnote Quality control ensures that no defective item leaves the factory.
168
What is a benefit of quality control?
Helps guarantee that no defective item leaves the factory ## Footnote This is crucial for maintaining standards in production.
169
What is a drawback of quality control?
Can mean poor quality is built into the product ## Footnote Quality control relies on inspecting finished products rather than preventing defects.
170
What does quality assurance aim to achieve?
Organising every process to get the product right first time ## Footnote Quality assurance focuses on preventing defects rather than identifying them after production.
171
What is a benefit of quality assurance?
Ensures products are not faulty as checked at each stage ## Footnote This proactive approach helps in maintaining high quality throughout the production process.
172
What is a drawback of quality assurance?
Time consuming to conduct ## Footnote Quality assurance requires thorough checks at each stage, which can slow down production.
173
Fill in the blank: Quality assurance requires __________ to identify mistakes.
[Staff training]
174
What is a consequence of effective quality assurance?
Stops complaints as better customer satisfaction ## Footnote Higher quality products lead to improved customer experiences.
175
What is necessary for quality assurance to be effective?
Need motivated staff ## Footnote Employee engagement is crucial for the success of quality assurance processes.
176
What does quality control require in terms of staff training?
Requires little staff training so good for low skilled/temp workers ## Footnote This allows for easier implementation in production environments.
177
True or False: Quality control is trusted only if 100% of products are checked.
True ## Footnote This reliance on complete inspection highlights a significant limitation of quality control.
178
What is scenario planning?
A strategic planning method designed to explore uncertainties, protect the business from worst consequences, and prepare to exploit opportunities ## Footnote Scenario planning is essential for businesses to anticipate future challenges and opportunities.
179
How does scenario planning help businesses?
Identifies risks and opportunities and prepares for them ## Footnote It teaches managers how events can develop and affect the business.
180
What does scenario planning teach managers?
How events can develop and affect the business ## Footnote It helps in understanding the causes and effects of change in business and how to manage it.
181
What is a risk assessment in the context of scenario planning?
A process used to look at possible scenarios for the future ## Footnote It helps comply with health and safety and ensures that workers and customers are kept safe.
182
What can risk assessment help identify?
Hazards, who might be harmed, and estimated probability of events happening ## Footnote It often marks the first stage in scenario planning where possible issues are spotted.
183
Give an example of a possible scenario in scenario planning.
Natural disasters, such as flooding in the UK ## Footnote Other examples include IT system failures and loss of key staff.
184
What is the first usual step in scenario planning?
Identify possible trends and issues ## Footnote PESTLE analysis could help in this step.
185
What is the second step in scenario planning?
Build possible scenarios ## Footnote This involves imagining a range of relevant issues, such as a supermarket IT failure.
186
What is the third step in scenario planning?
Plan response ## Footnote This involves thinking of the impact and developing how to deal with the identified scenarios.
187
What is the fourth step in scenario planning?
Identify the most likely scenarios ## Footnote Prioritize the most likely scenarios to consider in detail.
188
What is the fifth step in scenario planning?
Capitalize on scenarios ## Footnote This involves considering any positive scenarios that may occur, such as competitors going bankrupt.
189
What is risk mitigation planning?
Plans that identify, assess, and prioritize risks and plan responses to deal with the impact of these risks. ## Footnote Risk mitigation planning is essential for effective risk management in organizations.
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What are common risk mitigation strategies?
* Set up in a location that isn't vulnerable to flooding, earthquakes, drought, etc. * Ensure all buildings meet health and safety protocol when being built. * Take out relevant insurances (e.g., fire/theft). * Ensure data is stored securely on computers and backed up regularly. * Organize generators for backup power to ensure machinery can continue to be used. * Ensure that valuable assets (e.g., machinery, equipment) are protected as much as possible. * Have access to emergency funding. * Ensure communication channels are set up to deal with emergencies. * Produce a business continuity plan to deal with crises. ## Footnote These strategies help minimize the impact of potential risks on a business.
191
What is business continuity?
When an incident occurs, businesses will want to minimize disruption, so they create business continuity plans that show how a business will operate after an incident and how to return to normal as quickly as possible. ## Footnote Business continuity is critical for maintaining operations during and after emergencies.
192
What are the four stages of business continuity planning?
* Carry out an impact analysis. * Formulate recovery strategies. * Plan development. * Testing and training. ## Footnote These stages help ensure that a business can effectively respond to and recover from incidents.
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What is involved in carrying out an impact analysis?
Work out what is essential and what isn't by looking at consequences (e.g., financial). ## Footnote Impact analysis helps prioritize recovery efforts based on the significance of various business functions.
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What should be included in formulating recovery strategies?
Determine what resources are needed (e.g., IT, power) and how to work around issues (e.g., move production elsewhere, restrict orders, keep more stock). ## Footnote Recovery strategies are crucial for maintaining operations when disruptions occur.
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What does plan development entail in business continuity planning?
Ensure strategies are carried out in an organized way and liaise with key staff. ## Footnote Effective plan development ensures that all stakeholders are aware of their roles during a crisis.
196
What is the purpose of testing and training in business continuity planning?
Ensure that staff know what is expected and practice and update the plan accordingly. ## Footnote Regular testing and training help reinforce the business continuity plan and prepare staff for actual emergencies.
197
What is succession planning?
Looking at current employees and working out who has the potential to occupy key roles in the future. ## Footnote Succession planning is essential for maintaining leadership continuity within an organization.
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What characteristics should be considered in succession planning?
Job description and person specification. ## Footnote Identifying the right characteristics helps ensure that successors are well-suited for key roles.
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How should a successor be found in succession planning?
Decide whether to look internally or externally ('headhunt'). ## Footnote The choice of sourcing candidates can impact the organization's culture and continuity.
200
What is involved in the selection process for succession planning?
Scrutinized by key staff and making a decision. ## Footnote A thorough selection process helps ensure that the best candidates are chosen for key roles.
201
What should be communicated after making a succession decision?
Check on the motivation of internal candidates and make everyone aware. ## Footnote Effective communication helps maintain morale and clarity within the organization.
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What does implementing a training and preparation plan involve?
Could involve shadowing or going on specialist courses. ## Footnote Training and preparation are crucial for ensuring that successors are ready for their new roles.
203
What characterizes a Power Culture?
A central source of power makes all decisions and few rules exist. ## Footnote Often found in young, small to medium-sized businesses.
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In a Power Culture, how are rules and procedures treated?
They are over-ridden by those in power to suit themselves. ## Footnote This creates a competitive political atmosphere among individuals.
205
What is the decision-making process in a Role Culture?
Decisions are made through well-established rules and procedures. ## Footnote Power is associated with specific roles like director or supervisor.
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Describe the hierarchy in a Role Culture.
It has a tall hierarchy with a long chain of command, i.e., bureaucratic. ## Footnote An example includes the Civil Service.
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What defines a Task Culture?
Power is in the hands of those who can accomplish tasks, emphasizing skills. ## Footnote Team working is common, with teams created and dissolved as work changes.
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What are key traits of a Task Culture?
Adaptability and dynamism are important. ## Footnote Teams often form and disband based on project needs.
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What is a defining feature of a Person Culture?
It consists of individuals with expertise who do not work closely together. ## Footnote The organization supports the individuals rather than the other way around.
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Which types of professionals are commonly found in a Person Culture?
* Accountants * Lawyers * Doctors * Architects ## Footnote These firms typically have individuals with similar backgrounds and skill sets.
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How many main types of organizational culture are identified?
There are 4 main types of organizational culture. ## Footnote These include Power Culture, Role Culture, Task Culture, and Person Culture.
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What is the effect of a culture that respects individuals and their achievements on motivation?
Motivation is likely to be greater ## Footnote A respectful culture fosters a positive environment that encourages individuals to perform at their best.
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How can a highly competitive culture affect motivation?
It can be motivating for some and demotivating for others ## Footnote Competitive environments can drive high performers but may alienate those who prefer collaboration.
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What impact does an organisational culture that leads to success have on staff motivation?
Staff will be motivated as they feel part of the success ## Footnote Success creates a sense of belonging and achievement among employees.
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What is the characteristic of a person culture in organisational structures?
Flat hierarchy where key workers share senior management roles ## Footnote Common in professions like medical practices where collaboration is vital.
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How does the hierarchy differ in larger businesses compared to smaller ones?
Larger businesses have more layers in hierarchy ## Footnote Multinational businesses often require regional and divisional managers, resulting in a tall hierarchy.
217
What effect does the appointment of new management have on an organisation?
It will lead to change ## Footnote New leadership often brings new strategies and cultural shifts.
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What is the relationship between the extent of change needed and existing organisational culture?
The greater the change needed, the more likely the existing organisational culture will need to be confronted ## Footnote Significant changes often challenge the status quo and require addressing cultural norms.
219
What happens when businesses merge in terms of organisational culture?
Each business is likely to have a different organisational culture ## Footnote Merging requires creating a unified culture, which can be challenging.
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What is a quick way to change the organisational culture during a takeover?
Redundancy of senior management of the company being taken over ## Footnote This method can swiftly alter the leadership style and direction.
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How can corporate culture serve as a competitive advantage?
Corporate culture can be a brand asset ## Footnote A strong, positive culture can attract talent and enhance customer loyalty.
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How many main types of organisational culture are mentioned?
Four main types ## Footnote Understanding these types helps in assessing organisational dynamics.
223
What can poor efficiency lead to in a business?
Reduction in profit ## Footnote Poor efficiency can cause a lack of working capital.
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What is a likely consequence of a reduction in profit?
Lack of working capital ## Footnote This can prevent the business from paying current liabilities.
225
What may happen if a business cannot pay its current liabilities?
Causing the business to fail ## Footnote This failure is often linked to financial inefficiencies.
226
What can falling revenues lead to in a business?
Shortage of working capital ## Footnote This shortage can contribute to business failure.
227
What are two internal causes of business failure?
* Poor efficiency * Failure to innovate ## Footnote Both factors can severely impact a business's financial health.
228
What is a consequence of bad management of working capital?
Lack of cash, inability to pay current liabilities ## Footnote Effective management of working capital is crucial for maintaining liquidity.
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How can the risk of cash shortages be reduced?
Through cash flow forecasts ## Footnote Cash flow forecasts help identify potential cash flow issues in advance.
230
What can poor marketing lead to?
Entering a market with a lack of demand for goods/services ## Footnote This can severely impact a business's revenue and profitability.
231
What is a potential outcome of poor market research?
Lack of revenue, business not profitable, potential failure ## Footnote Understanding market demand is essential for business success.
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What can result from bad management of working capital?
A lack of cash, leading to an inability to pay current liabilities ## Footnote Poor management of working capital can severely impact a business's liquidity.
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How can businesses reduce the risk of cash shortages?
Through cash flow forecasts ## Footnote Cash flow forecasts help identify potential months with cash shortages.
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What is a consequence of poor market research?
Entering a market with a lack of demand for goods/services ## Footnote This can lead to reduced revenue and profitability.
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What is a potential outcome of a business not being profitable?
The business may fail ## Footnote Profitability is crucial for the sustainability of a business.
236
Fill in the blank: Poor marketing can lead to a lack of _______.
demand ## Footnote Effective marketing is essential to generate demand for a product or service.
237
True or False: A lack of cash can affect a business's ability to pay its debts.
True ## Footnote Cash flow issues directly impact a company's financial obligations.
238
What can a long-term fall in economic growth lead to?
A significant reduction in demand ## Footnote This can result in some businesses struggling to remain profitable and potentially closing.
239
How does a strong pound affect domestic exports?
It increases the price of domestic exports ## Footnote This can reduce the competitiveness of domestic goods/services sold abroad.
240
What is the consequence of reduced competitiveness of domestic goods/services?
A decrease in demand for goods/services from exporting businesses ## Footnote This can lead to a reduction in revenue and possible business failure.
241
What external economic condition can cause business failure?
Economic recession ## Footnote A prolonged recession can lead to decreased consumer demand.
242
What can a long-term fall in economic growth lead to?
A significant reduction in demand ## Footnote This can result in some businesses struggling to remain profitable and potentially closing.
243
How does a strong pound affect domestic exports?
It increases the price of domestic exports ## Footnote This can reduce the competitiveness of domestic goods/services sold abroad.
244
What is the consequence of reduced competitiveness of domestic goods/services?
A decrease in demand for goods/services from exporting businesses ## Footnote This can lead to a reduction in revenue and possible business failure.
245
What external economic condition can cause business failure?
Economic recession ## Footnote A prolonged recession can lead to decreased consumer demand.