Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR in Today’s Context for MB0036 MBA Assignment

It is the solved SMU MBA MB0036 assignment question of – “In today’s context, would you consider Corporate Social Responsibility as a cost adding activity and not the duty of Companies or as an essential role with advantages to the firm?” It is the series of Intellectual Property Rights and effects of IP rights and Credit Card system and advantage to each participant in the system.

The potential of CSR policies to strengthen the symbiotic relationship between enterprises and society has already been demonstrated in areas such as sustainable growth, education and social cohesion. CSR can support the creation of an atmosphere of trust within companies, which leads to a stronger commitment of employees and higher innovation performance. A similar atmosphere of trust in co-operation among other stakeholders can increase the external innovation performance.

Consumer confidence fostered through CSR can be a major contributor to economic growth. More specifically, through CSR practices, enterprises can play an important role in preventing and combating corruption and bribery, and in helping preventing the use of enterprises for money laundering and criminal activities financing.

CSR policies can also boost the societal benefit that enterprises create with regard to innovation. Innovation practices aiming at better jobs, safer and employee-friendly workplaces, gender mainstreaming and the innovation or technology transfer to local communities and developing countries, leading to a more equitable North-South economic and social development, are further examples of societal benefits created by innovative enterprises. Indeed, CSR may play a positive role in fostering development in third countries by helping to establish a dialogue between these countries, their public authorities, social partners and civil society and foreign companies.

Awareness of Corporate Social Responsibility issues and concerns will contribute to promote more sustainable investments, more effective development co-operation and technology transfers.

The desire of enterprises to improve their risk management is a powerful factor behind CSR. Enterprises generally agree that Corporate Social Responsibility helps them in managing their risks, their intangible assets, their internal process and their relations with internal and external stakeholders.

Intellectual Property Rights and Effects of IP Rights of Encouraging Investment in Research for MBA MB0036 Assignment

It is the solved assignment of MBA MB0036 question – “Intellectual Property Rights have increased prices. Intellectual Property Rights have the effect of encouraging investment in research, resulting in new products and in reducing costs. Discuss these two apparently contradictory statements.” It is the series of Sikkim Manipal University MBA assignment of MB0036 for Strategic Management & Business Policy - Credit Card system and advantage to each participant in the system and decision support system and example of critical reporting.

There are many patents that have never been successfully transformed into new products in the marketplace – what goes wrong in these cases? In some cases, it’s because the technology was not practically feasible, or was superseded by newer technologies. In other cases, the inventor lacked the resources or skills to take the invention to the next step.

One constant factor in the development of new technologies has been the cost and difficulty of the process of putting new technologies on the market. The technical merit or scientific brilliance of an invention is only one aspect of actually bringing a new technology to the public in a useful practical form.

Intellectual property protection needs to be properly managed so that it facilitates this process, and doesn’t itself become a burden.

The problems of getting worthwhile benefits from the patent system – even for the patent owner – are not new ones, as the quotation from 120 years ago makes clear: Patenting was unnecessarily and unwisely expensive, and the poor patentee was left almost without any aid or guidance. Intellectual property rights recognize innovative and creative activities, and are intended to reward useful and valuable contribution to society.

A patent can be expensive to obtain, especially if it is applied for in many countries, and costs money to keep in force, as annual renewal fees are required in many countries. In addition, patents can be very expensive to enforce if it becomes necessary to go to court to prevent infringement. Patents recognize inventiveness, but they are neutral on the commercial value of the invention. Many patented inventions will prove to be technologically unsuccessful, or commercially unviable.

In short, obtaining registered intellectual property rights or IP rights can be expensive, and do not in themselves make you any returns for your investment. Patents can be costly liabilities to you, your business or your research institute, unless you can find a way to apply your invention commercially or can get other forms of financial support.

Credit Card System and Advantage to Each Participant in the System for MB0036 Assignment

The assignment question is – “Trace the sequence of operations involved in a credit card system. What is the advantage to each participant in the system?” It is the SMU MBA MB0036 assignment in the sequence of decision support system and example of critical reporting and KRA of CFO.

A technical reason could be the wrong or no signature, wrong or no date, important details missing in the sales vouchers and so on. Despite the warnings carried on many a sales voucher both refunds and cancellations are daily occurrences.

To be considered a chargeback, the card issuer must initiate a well-defined dispute procedure. This it can do only after it has determined the reasons invalidating the transaction. A chargeback can only be initiated by the issuing financial institution. The cardholder himself has no standing in this matter and the chargeback rules and regulations are not accessible to him. He is confined to lodging a complaint with the issuer.

This is an abnormal situation whereby rules affecting the balances and mandating operations resulting in debits and credits in the bank account are not available to the account name.

The credit card company sends the transaction to the issuing bank and automatically debits the issuer.

The issuing bank debits the cardholder’s account. It issues monthly or transaction related statements to the cardholder.

Some credit card companies in some territories prefer to work directly with the cardholders. In such a case, they issue a monthly statement, which the cardholder has to pay directly to them by money order or by bank transfer. The cardholder will required providing a security to the credit card company and his spending limits will be tightly related to the level and quality of the security provided by him. The very issuance of the card is almost always subject to credit history and to an approval process.

The credit card company sends the transactions to the issuing bank and automatically debits it.

The issuing bank automatically debits the cardholder’s account. It issues monthly or transaction related statements to the cardholder.

Decision Support System and Example of Critical Reporting for SMU MB0036 Assignment

It is the solved assignment of – “What is a Decision Support System? Name one example of critical Reporting for each of the Production, Marketing and Finance departments of the Company.” You can see some other solved assignments of SMU MB0036 (Strategic Management & Business Policy) such as – KRA of CFO and List and explain the objectives of a Bankruptcy Law.

Many companies in developing countries have a very detailed reporting system going down to the level of a single product, a single supplier, a single day. However, these reports – which are normally provided to the General Manager – should not be used by them at all. They are too detailed and, thus, tend to obscure the true picture. He must be alerted to unusual happenings, disturbing financial data and other irregularities.

The first level is the annual budget of the company which is really a business plan. The budget allocates amounts of money to every activity and/or department of the firm.

The second tier of financial audit and control is when the finance department is able to produce pro forma financial statements monthly.

These financial statements, however inaccurate, provide a better sense of the dynamics of the operation and should be constructed on the basis of Western Accounting Principles.

The Manager should have access to continuously updated statements of income, cash flow, and a balance sheet. The most important statement is that of the cash flow. The manager should be able to know, at each and every stage, what his real cash situation is – as opposed to the theoretical cash situation which includes accounts payable and account receivable in the form of expenses and income.

The presentation to the Board an annual plan of sales and marketing including: market penetration targets, profiles of potential social and economic categories of clients, sales promotion methods, advertising strategic investor also implements these plans or supervises their implementation.

This strategic investor is usually possessed of a brand name recognized in many countries. It is the market leaders in certain territories. It has been providing goods and services to users for a long period of time, reliably. This is an important asset, which, if properly used, can attract users. The enhancement of the brand name, its recognition and market awareness, market penetration, co-branding, collaboration with other suppliers – are all the responsibilities of the strategic investor.

Key Result Areas (KRAs) of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for MBA MB0036 Assignment

It is the question – “If you are made the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) of a Company what would you consider to be the KRAs (Key Result Areas) of your job?” It is the next solved assignment question of SMU MBA MB0036 of Strategic Management & Business Policy. You should take a look of List and explain the objectives of a Bankruptcy Law and A Business Continuity Plan is a Disaster Management Plan.

The CFO (Chief Financial Officer) is fervently hated by the workers. He is thoroughly despised by other managers, mostly for scrutinizing their expense accounts. He is dreaded by the owners of the firm because his powers that often outweigh theirs. Shareholders hold him responsible I annual meetings.

The job of the Chief Financial Officer is composed of many elements here is a universal job description which is common throughout the West.

The Chief Financial Officer is subordinated to the Chief Executive Officer, answers to him and regularly reports to him.

To regulate, supervise and implement a timely, full and accurate set of accounting books of the firm reflecting all its activities in a manner commensurate with the relevant legislation and regulation in the territories of operation of the firm and subject to internal guidelines set from time to time by the Board of Directors of the firm.

To implement continuous financial audit and control systems to monitor the performance of the firm, its flow of funds, the adherence to the budget, the expenditures, the income, the cost of sales and other budgetary items.

To timely, regularly and duly prepare and present to the Board of Directors financial statements and reports as required by all pertinent laws and regulations in the territories of the operations of the firm and as deemed necessary and demanded from time to time by the Board of Directors of the Firm.

To comply with all reporting, accounting and audit requirements imposed by the capital markets or regulatory bodies of capital markets in which the securities of the firm are traded or are about to be traded or otherwise listed.

To prepare and present for the approval of the Board of Directors an annual budget, other budgets, financial plans, business plans feasibility studies, investment memoranda and all other financial and business documents as may be required from time to time by the Board of Directors of firm.

To maintain a working relationship and to develop additional relationships with banks, financial institutions and capital markets with the aim of securing the funds necessary for the operations of the firm, the attainment of its development plans and its investments.

To alert the Board of Directors and to warn it regarding any irregularity, lack of compliance, lack of adherence, lacunas and problems whether actual or potential concerning the financial systems, the financial operations, the financing plans, the accounting, the audits, the budgets and any other matter of a financial nature or which could or does have a financial implication.

To collaborate and co-ordinate the activities of outside suppliers of financial services hired or contracted by the firm, including accounts, auditors, financial consultants, underwriters and brokers, the banking system and other financial venues.

List and Explain the Objectives of a Bankruptcy Law for MB0036 of SMU MBA Assignment

It is the solved assignment of – “List and explain the objectives of a Bankruptcy Law.” It is the sequence of MB0036 Strategic Management & Business Policy MBA assignments of SMU. You should read these also - A Business Continuity Plan is a Disaster Management Plan and method and elements of a Sales projection.

The USA had many versions of Bankruptcy laws. There was the 1938 Bankruptcy Act, which was followed by amended versions in 1978, 1984 and, lately, in 1994.

Each State has modified the Federal Law to fit its special, local conditions.

Still, a few things – the spirit of the law and its philosophy are common to all the versions. Arguably, the most famous procure is named after the chapter in the law in which it is described, Chapter 11. Following is a brief discussion of chapter 11 intended to demonstrate this spirit and this philosophy.

This chapter allows for a mechanism called “reorganization”. It must be approved by two thirds of all classes of creditors and then, again, it could be voluntary or involuntary.

Chapter 7 (1978 Act) – Liquidation:

A District Court appoints an “interim trustee” with broad powers. Such a trustee can also be appointed at the request of the creditors and by them.

Chapter 11 – Reorganization:

Unless he court rules otherwise, the debtor remains in possession and in control of the business and the debtor and the creditors are allowed to work together flexibly. They are encouraged to reach a settlement by compromise and agreement rather than by court adjudication.

Chapter 10:

In short a legal hybrid, the offspring of chapters 7 and 11:

It allows for reorganization under a court appointed independent manager (trustee) who is responsible mainly for the filling of reorganization plans with the court – and for verifying strict adherence to them by both debtor and creditors.

Despite its clarity and business orientation, many countries found it difficult to adapt to the pragmatic, non sentimental approach which led to the virtual elimination of the absolute priority rule.

A Business Continuity Plan is a Disaster Management Plan for SMU MB0036 Assignment

The assignment question is – “A Business Continuity Plan is a Disaster Management Plan. Discuss this statement, explaining how such a plan could be useful for a business affected by recession.” It is a MBA assignment question of Strategic Management & Business Policy. You can see some more solved assignment questions of SMU MBA MB0036 - method and elements of a Sales projection and types of capital needed for a start-up Company.

The Business Continuity Guideline is comprised of two sections: (1) the planning process and (2) successful implementation and maintenance.

It is essential that senior leadership of the organization sponsors and takes responsibility for creating, maintaining, testing, and implementing a comprehensive Business Continuity Plan (BCP). This will insure that management and staff at all levels within the organization understands that the BCP is a critical top management priority.

Such resources can include personnel, technology hardware and software, specialized equipment, general office supplies, facility/office space and critical and vital business records. Identifying, backing-up, and storing critical and vital business records in a safe and accessible location are essential prerequisites for an effective BCP. The Risk Assessment and BIA provide the foundation on which the organization’s BCP will rest, as strategies will be formulated and plans will be developed to meet the needs identified in them.

It is necessary that an appropriate administrative structure be put in place to effectively deal with crisis management. Clear definitions must exist for a management structure, authority for decisions, and responsibility for implementation. An organization should have a Crisis Management Team to lead incident/event response. The Team should be comprised of such functions as human resource, information technology, facilities, security, legal, communications/media relations, manufacturing, warehousing and other business critical support functions, with all under the clear direction of senior management or its representatives.

The Crisis Management Team may be supported by as many Response Teams as appropriate taking into account such factors as organization size and type, number of employees, location, etc. Response Teams should develop Response Plans to address various aspects of potential crises, such as damage assessment, site restoration, payroll, human resources, information technology, and administrative support, Response Plans should be consistent with and included within the overall BCP. Individuals should be recruited for membership on Response Teams based upon their skills, level of commitment, and vested interest.

Method and Elements of a Sales Projection for MB0036 SMU MBA Assignment

This is the solved assignment of – “You are the Marketing Head of a multi product marketing company for consumer goods in South India. Explain the method and elements of a Sales projection for the following budget year.” The solved MBA assignment question is written for Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) MB0036 of Strategic Management & Business Policy. There are already some assignments of MB0036 such as main features of a Business Plan for a Company and types of capital needed for a start-up Company.

Present an estimate of how many people you expect will purchase your product or service. Your estimate should be based on the size of your market, the characteristics of your customers and the share of the market you will gain over your competition. Project how many unites you will sell at a specified price over several years. The initial year should be broken down in monthly or quarterly increments. Account for initial presentation and market penetration of your product and any seasonal variations in sales, if appropriate.

Describe the amount and types of financing you are seeking for your business. Are you looking for debt from a lender or equity from an investor? Refer to you start up budget and cash flow statement presented earlier. Discuss how and when you will draw on these funds and how they will affect the bottom line. Also describe any commitments or investments that you may have already secured.

If you are seeking investors, such as venture capitalists, describe what they will receive in return for their capital. What are the repayment period and the expected return on investment? Also discuss the nature of their ownership share and how it may change with future investments. Equity investors are looking for rates of return higher than rates offered by banks or other business lenders. The level of risk in your business and industry will help to determine the actual market rate, as will the availability of equity dollars.

Be prepared to negotiate. And make sure you research the investment market carefully; several socially minded investment pools exist and more are in development.

Types of Capital Needed for a Start-Up Company for MB0036 MBA Assignment

It is the solved assignment of – “What are the three types of capital needed for a start-up Company?” I have already shared some SMU MBA assignments from Strategic Management & Business Policy (MB0036) for you such as features of a Business Plan for a Company, 4 Main Areas of Strategic Alliances and implementation of the strategy by CEO of a company.

Financial feasibility of your planned venture provides several financial reports and statements to document why your business will be a viable enterprise and a sound investment. There are three types of capital needed for a start-up company:

Start-up Budget:

Describe the initial expenses you will incur to get your business sup and running. Some items you might include in your start-up budget research and product design and development expenses, legal incorporation and licensing expenses, facility purchase or rental, equipment and vehicle purchase or rental, and initial material or supply purchase. You can use Worksheet B as a sample format for preparing your start-up budget.

Cash Flow Projection:

This statement presents a month-to-month schedule of the estimated cash inflows and outflows of your business for the first year. This schedule should indicate how much money your business will have or need and when you will need it. You should describe your sources of income and capital detailing your projected sales revenues and indicating your own or investor equity contribution, lenders, investors and other sources of capital. Itemize your projected expenses, distinguishing between the costs of goods sold, overhead expenses.

Income Statement:

Prepare of multiyear statement projected revenues, expenses, capital expenditures and cost of goods sold. If you make assumptions about the growth of your business, provide supporting documentation such as growth patterns of similar companies or studies that forecast an industry-wide growth rate. This statement should indicate to the reader of potential of your business to generate cash and its profitability over time. For an existing business, also submit an income statement to determine whether your business can support the additional debt you are requesting.

Features of a Business Plan for a Company with Production and Marketing Operations for MB0036 Assignment

This is the solved assignment of SMU MBA for Strategic Management & Business Policy. The question is – “Explain the main features of a Business Plan for a Company with production and marketing operations.” You can view implementation of the strategy by CEO of a company.

There are some examples of a business plan for a company with production and marketing operations:

Revenue Generation:

Your organization may hope to create a business that will generate sufficient net income or profit to finance other programs, activities or services provided by your organization.

Employment Creation:

A new business venture may create job opportunities for community residents or the constituency served by your organization.

Neighborhood Development Strategy:

A new business venture might serve as an anchor to a deteriorating neighborhood commercial area, attract additional business to the area and fill a gap in existing retail services.

Establish Goals:

Once you have identified goals for a new business venture, the next step in the business planning process is to identify and select the right business. Many organizations may find themselves starting at this point in the process. Business opportunities may have been dropped at your doorstep.

Local Market Study:

Whether your goal is to revitalize or fill space in a neighborhood commercial district or to rehabilitate vacant housing stock, you should conduct a local market study. A good market study will measure the level of existing goods and services provided in the area, and assess the capacity of the area to support existing and additional commercial or home-ownership activity.

Analysis of Local and Regional Industry Trends:

Another method of investigating potential business opportunities is to research local and regional business and industry trends. You may be able to identify which business or industrial sectors are growing or declining in your city, metropolitan area or region.

Internal Capacity:

The board, staff or membership of your organization may possess knowledge and skills in a particular business sector or industry.

Identify Business Opportunities:

You will also need to assess the customer or client base and determine whether its members will remain loyal to the business after it changes hands.

Implementation of the Strategy by CEO of a Company for SMU MBA MB0036 Assignment

Assignment question is – “You have taken over as CEO of a Company and have formulated a Strategy document to improve its share value by 50% in 3 years. What steps would you follow in the implementation of the Strategy?” We have already discussed about 4 Main Areas of Strategic Alliances for Strategic Management & Business Policy.

There are three alternatives to improve the sales performance of a business unit, to fill the gap between actual sales and targeted sales:

Intensive Growth

Integrative Growth

Diversification Growth

Intensive Growth:

It refers to the process of identifying opportunities to achieve further growth within the company’s current business. To achieve intensive growth, the management should first evaluate the available opportunities to improve the performance of its existing current business.

Integrative Growth:

It refers to the process of identifying opportunities to develop or acquire business that are related to the company’s current business. More often, the business process have to be integrated for linear growth in the profits. The corporate plan may be designed to undertake backward, forward or horizontal integration within the industry.

Alternatively, if this company acquires some of it’s most profitably operating intermediaries such as wholesalers or retailers, it is forward integration. If the company legally takes over or acquires the business of any of its leading competitors, it is called horizontal integration.

Diversification Growth:

It refers to the process of identifying opportunities to develop or acquire business that are not related to the company’s current business. This makes sense when such opportunities outside the present business are identified with attractive returns and that industry has business strengths to be successful. In most cases, this is planned with new products that have technological or marketing synergies with existing business to cater to a different group of customers.

A printing press might shift over to offset printing with computerized content generation to appeal to higher-end customers and also add new application areas – or even sell stationery. Alternatively, the company might choose new business that has nothing to do with the current technology, products or markets.

TAPARIA, CEO of Rajashree comments followed a value enhancement strategy to capture the market dominated by 43 grades, where ACC and L & T were market leaders. He noticed that nobody thought of the market-positioning slot superior grade 53, which, despite high rice, leads to overall savings due to less consumption. He expected that a shift from 43 to 53 grades would require convincing, for which channel support and its participation in communication were essential.