Winter
Showing 577–592 of 772 results
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Are you lost without a business plan? Create a “map” to navigate your way
Winter 2012
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 895
Abstract: Business plans serve a purpose beyond use at the dealership. Factory field representatives and lenders view auto dealers with formal plans as more organized, less risky business partners. With manufacturers looking to constrict their franchise networks and lending still tight, formal planning may offer a leg up on the competition. This article discusses the three financial statements and other elements that should be included in the plan, and notes the importance of testing business assumptions. A sidebar explains why it’s important to continually monitor and revise a business plan.
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Cure customer complaints with a dose of insight
Winter 2008
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 536
Abstract: Every dealer knows the value of a loyal customer. But, unfortunately, every dealership doesn’t view the complaint-handling process as the delicate operation it is. By responding to dissatisfied patrons in a healthy, informed manner, you and your staff can cure customer complaints without losing business. (Updated 11/30/12)
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The Contractor’s Corner – Many subcontractors struggle with surplus of idle workers
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 435
Abstract: This issue’s “Contractor’s Corner” discusses a contractor who, facing a dearth of projects, is thinking about laying off employees. But this article offers possible options, such as determining the true costs of both active and idle workers, instituting pay cuts or job-sharing programs, or even “loaning” employees to friendly competitors.
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Take it step by step – The basics of savvy succession planning
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 642
Abstract: Sooner or later, every construction company owner must relinquish control of his or her business. If the owner doesn’t want to sell the business to an outside party, it’s essential to find a family member or employee who can be trusted and believed in. This article shows the basics of savvy succession planning. It describes how to identify a leader and provide for heirs who won’t be involved in the business, and looks at issues involving management structure, buy-sell agreements and estate planning. It also mentions the importance of the owner finding him- or herself a new role after stepping down.
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A different animal – Federal projects bring a variety of challenges
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 889
Abstract: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (the “stimulus act”) appropriated billions of dollars in construction spending. Only now, however, are many of these projects finally arriving. But federal contracting warrants some careful preparation. These jobs are a far different animal from their privately funded counterparts. This article explains the types of competitors involved, the bidding process, and the tax ramifications. A sidebar points out that there are also ethical requirements involved.
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3 areas of fraud-proofing to focus on
Winter 2011
Newsletter: On-Site
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 429
Abstract: As the economy continues to challenge everyone, the motivation for some employees to steal isn’t hard to understand. One way to divide and potentially conquer fraudsters is to focus on the three primary areas where fraud typically can occur: in the office, during banking transactions, and on the job site. This article offers tips.
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New credit makes health care coverage more affordable
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 307
Abstract: One of the provisions of 2010’s Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is a health care tax credit for small employers, including nonprofits. The credit could significantly reduce health care costs — or enable nonprofits to offer employees coverage even where it might have seemed unaffordable. This article helps nonprofits determine whether they’re eligible.
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Unraveling the mystery of donor motivation
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 716
Abstract: People support charities not only for tax breaks and a vague sense of “giving back,” but also for a variety of other financial, emotional and social reasons. Understanding what motivates donors and how their motivations vary across demographic groups can help nonprofits more effectively reach and engage potential supporters. This article reviews research on the subject and suggests ways for organizations to use it.
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D&O insurance allows your board to do good, safely
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 564
Abstract: In the corporate world, directors and officers (D&O) liability insurance is considered a must-have. Unfortunately, many nonprofits fail to obtain this type of coverage because they think they’re less likely to have litigation concerns. But hundreds of nonprofits are sued every year. This article helps nonprofits determine if they need D&O insurance, and if so, what coverage they should or shouldn’t obtain.
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Too much work, too few hands – Outsourcing can help solve understaffing problems
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Nonprofit Observer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 913
Abstract: Thousands of U.S. charities have been forced to cut staff for lack of funds to pay them. This article examines what nonprofits should do if they’re short on staff and don’t have the funds or confidence in the future to hire employees — or even to retain the ones they have. Specifically, it lists the advantages of outsourcing some positions, but the drawbacks of doing so for others. A sidebar discusses how to make the most of volunteers.
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The best defense – Taking the initiative to protect your assets
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 677
Abstract: Creditors and potential litigants can present a serious threat to personal assets, so it’s important to take the initiative to protect assets from such future claims. This article looks at a number of ways to accomplish this, such as gifts, property title transfers, trusts, retirement plans, family limited partnerships and limited liability companies.
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3 business financing alternatives to consider
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 428
Abstract: Banks are showings no signs of backing down from their strict provisions and are taking more time than ever to approve loans. But this article looks at three options to consider: microfinancing, Small Business Administration loans and angel investors.
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Is it time for a check-up? A business valuation can serve many purposes
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 945
Abstract: A valuation can serve many purposes that every business owner should consider. This article shows how a valuation can help a business strategize for the future, play a key role in the creation and maintenance of a buy-sell agreement, and prepare for a business transfer. A sidebar describes the meanings of four terms that a business owner may hear or see when interacting with an appraiser.
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New tax law expands, extends multiple provisions
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Management & Tax Concepts
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 434
Abstract: It was a long time coming but, on Dec. 17, the president signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. This article looks at some of the highlights as they pertain to estate planning and to individuals and business owners.
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Sustainable packaging can boost bottom line results
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 303
Abstract: The shift toward implementing environmentally friendly business practices is nothing new among manufacturers. And now, they’re turning to sustainable packaging as the latest way to go green — not only because it reduces waste, but also because customers are demanding it. This article describes some of the basic steps involved in making the switch to sustainable packaging.
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Powering down – Reduce operational costs by conducting an energy audit
Winter 2011
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 652
Abstract: For most manufacturers, energy efficiency has become a must-do measure. However, while instigating a large-scale energy reduction plan may seem daunting, there are ways to make the process easier — and well worth the effort. This article shows how manufacturers can not only determine current energy usage, but employ a third-party energy audit to discover specific measures to reduce usage.