Summer
Showing 705–720 of 760 results
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FAR-reaching rules for government contractors
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 336
Abstract: Contractors performing work for the federal government must become familiar with the recently revised Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). They are now required to disclose certain overpayments and legal violations. And those who are involved with larger projects must implement rigorous business ethics programs and internal control systems. This short article looks at some of the details.
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Contractor’s Toolbox – Don’t wait! Time’s running out on certain tax breaks
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 591
Abstract: In the wake of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), contractors stand to benefit from not only spending initiatives for infrastructure and other construction projects, but also several tax incentives. These include a temporary extension of the 50% bonus depreciation and the enhanced Section 179 expensing election. Contractors planning any asset expenditures should take an immediate look at these incentives, but also keep in mind the bonding and banking effect of any major asset acquisition, so that liquidity and leverage ratios don’t suffer.
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What’s so captivating about captive insurance?
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 720
Abstract: Captive insurance is a type of self-insurance that can help all types of businesses reduce costs. But is it right for every construction company? Maybe, maybe not. It can depend on the size of a company, the kinds of insurance covered, the location of a captive and the tax consequences of that location. But, if the conditions are right, there are specific benefits that a captive can offer a construction firm.
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Know your financial pulse: It could save your company’s life
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 934
Abstract: Just as a wise patient undergoes regular medical checkups, a construction company should have regular financial checkups. Doing so will help it stay in compliance with loan covenants and maintain its bonding capacity. There are numerous ratios and other metrics that can be used, but it’s important for a contractor to select a manageable number of indicators that makes sense for the company and measure its performance in various areas. Four especially important kinds of ratios involve profitability, liquidity, leverage and efficiency; this article gives examples of each kind. A sidebar discusses the importance of negotiating loan covenants with lenders in this constricted lending environment.
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The $65,000 question — Will your practice get all it can from Medicare/Medicaid incentives?
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1252
Abstract: The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) has significantly increased the potential return physicians may receive from either Medicare or Medicaid, depending on their payor mix. But to get the most from this opportunity, practice leaders will need to stay on top of the details. This article discusses participation criteria, along with details concerning Medicare incentives, HIPAA privacy rules, and penalties on physicians who don’t meet the “meaningful user” criteria. Medicare and Medicaid payment schedules for the coming years are provided.
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8 key elements to an effective EHR system action plan
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1039
Abstract: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (also known as the stimulus bill) includes a section known as the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) that devotes $17 billion to the implementation of electronic health records (EHR). The good news is that funding for implementation is finally available to physicians and health systems. The bad news is that the funding is the easy part — the hard part is the implementation of an EHR system. An outline of eight key elements points the way.
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Marketing your practice in a difficult economy
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Vital Signs
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 769
Abstract: No matter what changes come to the medical profession, a basic reality is that all medical practices will need patients to exist. Great opportunities exist in this time of change. Marketing your practice is a crucial way of keeping up your patient base. It doesn’t always have to cost money, but it does require energy and focus. This article offers tips involving networking, getting your name into the marketplace, and maintaining high standards of service.
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Are your business customers looking to switch banks?
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 449
Abstract: A recent survey revealed that nearly half of small and middle-market companies in the U.S. are “actively seeking a new bank or would consider changing banks if presented with a compelling offer.” The main reasons companies want to switch banks are “lack of demonstrated commitment to the business,” “poor communication” and “uncertainty regarding financial health.” But many banks should be able to reverse the trend and hold onto customers by improving communications, making credit decisions on a case-by-case basis, showing more appreciation for long-term customers and providing greater transparency for their own financial condition.
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Dealing with troubled loans
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 1115
Abstract: For the first time in years, banks face significant numbers of troubled loans. As you review your loan portfolio and make decisions about how to handle troubled borrowers, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with “troubled debt restructurings” (TDRs), which can affect your financial statements. This article discusses the red flags of a troubled loan, the difference between TDRs and other restructurings, and the accounting implications of TDRs. A sidebar offers an example of a TDR.
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Avoiding “capital” punishment – Maintain adequate capital in today’s economy
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 775
Abstract: The current financial crisis has most banks focusing on liquidity issues and credit risk. But neither can you afford to neglect capital adequacy. Without adequate capital, it’s difficult for banks to make new loans and engage in other activities that drive future growth. There are two basic approaches banks can use to address capital deficiencies. One is to raise new capital. The other is to eliminate risk. Your risk assessment should consider six major risk areas outlined by the Federal Reserve’s banking risk framework.
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Leverage online banking to generate deposit growth
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Community Banking Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 674
Abstract: As a byproduct of the current financial downturn, more people are keeping their money in savings accounts and other investments they consider “safe.” This presents an opportunity for financially sound banks to attract new deposits. And one way to spur deposit growth is to take advantage of the Internet and other technologies that encourage people to save and make it easier for them to make deposits with your bank. But online banking also can increase your bank’s exposure to fraud, identity theft, money laundering and other risks. This article lists potential online services, along with risks to guard against.
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What makes you special? Finding a USP that differentiates your dealership
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 374
Abstract: Competing on price alone is a tough way to survive – it requires significant sales volume to turn a profit. In today’s economy, successful dealerships differentiate themselves with a unique selling proposition (USP). A USP is a focused message that promises something unique that others can’t (or don’t) provide. When choosing a USP, you should consider your strengths, your competitors’ weaknesses and, perhaps most important, who your best customers are and what they want.
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Buying while the buying is good
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 637
Abstract: In this downturned economy, many dealerships in sound condition are wondering if this is a good time to expand by taking over dealerships that are for sale. But this is a decision that should be weighed with the utmost care. It will be necessary to size up one’s own financial health, calculate the risks, and look at the strengths and weaknesses of the prospective workforce.
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How to protect your assets in a divorce
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 697
Abstract: Divorce, one of life’s most stressful experiences, can drain one’s emotions — and bank account. Not only must divorcing dealers’ personal assets be divvied up, but their business interests also might be at stake. Fortunately, an accounting professional can help with the financial side of divorce. He or she will evaluate whether the dealer’s interest in the dealership is part of the marital estate, and whether state laws consider goodwill includible. The professional also will choose the best valuation approach to determine the dealership’s worth.
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Parts and service lifeline – A well-run back shop can save your dealership
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 961
Abstract: For the average dealer, parts and service accounted for all its operating profits last year, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). To help dealers maintain this lifeline through this rough economy, this article provides tips on catering to customers, exploiting technology, providing perceived value and working as a coordinated team. A sidebar discusses whether customer service index ratings or other measures provide the best gauge of customer satisfaction.
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Think CPO – 5 ways to heat up a used-car operation
Summer 2008
Newsletter: Auto Focus
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 566
Abstract: Certified preowned vehicles (CPOs) are a “safe” bet for picky or used-car-shy customers. They also allow bargain-hunters to get more car for the same price as a new lower-end, lower-frills model. So it’s no wonder that CPOs can help strengthen a dealer’s used-car operation.