MFG
Showing 209–224 of 252 results
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The IC-DISC – An overlooked tax break that could be your big break
Spring 2010
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 806
Abstract: By forming an interest charge–domestic international sales corporation (IC-DISC), a manufacturing company may realize substantial tax savings on export-sales income. The general concept is fairly simple: A U.S. manufacturer establishes a “shell” company — an IC-DISC — and then pays its IC-DISC a percentage of the company’s export revenue, also known as commissions; the company doesn’t pay taxes on these commissions. There can be operational advantages, as well. This article looks at the qualifications required to set up an IC-DISC, while a sidebar looks at the history of this tax incentive.
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Supply chain management – Choose a system that fits your needs and budget
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 388
Abstract: Manufacturers have used transportation management systems (TMSs) for nearly 15 years. As these supply-chain-management software systems have evolved and improved, many manufacturers have been leaving their third-party logistics service providers in favor of the more convenient, cost-effective alternative a TMS provides. This article discusses what to consider when deciding whether to implement a TMS.
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Shippers beware – Common problems with cargo insurance
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 779
Abstract: Manufacturers know that cargo insurance is vital when it comes to moving valuable products and machinery. But many have found, often too late, that their coverage isn’t sufficient, leaving them with lost or damaged goods and little or no compensation. The policies often have an “endorsements” section that prevents the carrier from being held liable in many scenarios. And a broker’s “contingency cargo liability” policy offers little protection to a shipper. For that purpose, a “shipper’s interest” cargo insurance policy fills the bill.
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On the defensive – Use available weapons to fortify your manufacturing company against fraud
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 711
Abstract: The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners reports that U.S. companies lost approximately $994 billion in revenue to fraud in a two-year period ending in 2008. Even more sobering is the fact that 7.2% of fraud cases occurred in manufacturing companies, accounting for a median loss of $441,000. Unfortunately, employees are a natural culprit because they have the most immediate access to funds and materials, and there are several key functions that are particularly vulnerable. This article looks at steps a manufacturer can take to reduce the chances of fraud, while a sidebar explains the importance of having a fraud prevention policy.
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Comparing this to that – Benchmarking financial performance with ratios
Winter 2010
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 805
Abstract: Benchmarking with financial ratios allows manufacturers to break their operations into individual segments to measure effectiveness against past performance, company goals and industry standards. It can provide insight into which areas of a business are strong and which need improvement. This article discusses such commonly used ratios as debt-to-assets, return-on-assets and return-on-equity, along with a number of others, and discusses the pros and cons of benchmarking. A sidebar discusses the best ratios to study before applying for a loan.
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Is your equipment operating at peak effectiveness?
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 278
Abstract: These days, when many manufacturers are seeing less work coming in and less room for mechanical error, a manufacturing operation has to be in top shape. The key to avoiding costly downtime starts with measuring overall equipment effectiveness, or OEE. This short article describes what it is and how to improve it.
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Selling your manufacturing company is possible — even in a down economy
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 604
Abstract: “We’re just going to wait it out.” In an uncertain economy, this seems to be a business owner’s mantra for everything from hiring freezes to putting off large expenditures. Prudence may be preferable when it comes to some business decisions, but if a manufacturing company owner is considering selling the business, he or she doesn’t have to wait until things pick up. Although some flexibility is necessary, an acceptable price is within reach if one is perceived as a discerning and prepared seller. This article describes the steps to make it possible.
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How to deal with customer bankruptcy
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 781
Abstract: If a company has a customer who’s hovering on the brink of bankruptcy — or even wallowing through it — it needs to take certain steps to protect itself. This involves knowing about the different types of bankruptcy and the immediate steps to take when learning of one, including deciding whether to pursue repayment or write off the debt. If the former course is chosen, it will be important to participate in the court proceedings and follow certain procedures. Beyond all this, there are preventive measures a company can take to avoid being stung by customer bankruptcy in the first place.
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Private activity bonds – Act soon to add more to your manufacturing facility for less
Fall 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 751
Abstract: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, commonly referred to as the Stimulus act, has sweetened tax-exempt private activity bonds, which are available to finance “manufacturing facilities.” This definition now includes facilities used in the creation or production of intangible property, such as computer software or intellectual property. Traditional manufacturers may also benefit by using the money from a private activity bond to finance the development of on-site facilities. The act also lessens alternative minimum tax risk. But these and other tax breaks (described in a sidebar) may not be around for long, so it’s important to act fast.
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Head out on the highway – Prepare for HVUT before you hit the road
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 339
Abstract: This short article discusses the ins and outs of the Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT), which applies to manufacturers that transport heavy materials using vehicles that have a taxable gross weight of at least 55,000 pounds.
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Rebate review – Offering incentives can mean extra income all around
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 600
Abstract: Regardless of how your supply chain operates, cash back can be a motivator across the board — from distributors to retailers to consumers. That’s why rebate and incentive programs are a solid way for manufacturers to boost their bottom lines. This article discusses a variety of ways you can leverage cash-back incentives to move inventory and increase profitability.
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Trade you – Bartering provides a welcome alternative in tight times
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 537
Abstract: As banks become increasingly tight-fisted, more businesses are turning to bartering to recoup losses, reduce excess inventory and even come away with additional income. You can barter directly with another company, or, with the help of an exchange company, you can turn liquid assets into trade credits by selling excess products to another market. Of course, there are still tax considerations. But bartering can be an effective option to keep your manufacturing company up when the economy is down.
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Is duplicate data costing you money?
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 516
Abstract: Did you know a source of revenue loss could lie in a part of your business you don’t see? It’s the extra storage space you’re paying to house redundant data. Deduplication technology can free up storage space, speed your operating system and give you the added efficiency your manufacturing company needs to stay profitable. This article defines deduplication technology and discusses the software involved.
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Howdy, partner! Start your business partnership off on the right foot
Summer 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 990
Abstract: Regardless of what industry you’re in, a strategically planned business partnership can be a smart option for starting a company. But it’s important to evaluate whether a partnership is the best option in your specific case — and it’s vital that you take the necessary steps to ensure its success. You need to consider the tax impact and the structure of the partnership, and put an agreement in writing. A sidebar discusses how you should choose a potential business partner.
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Expanded ADA boosts employer responsibility
Spring 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 278
Abstract: Recent changes to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) extend coverage to more people in the workplace because of the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) that took effect Jan. 1. This short article details employers’ responsibilities under ADAAA.
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Slashing costs – Incorporate strategic service management and reverse logistics into your cost-reduction program
Spring 2009
Newsletter: Manufacturer
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 681
Abstract: As manufacturers become more adept at improving production and operations, they should look beyond the tried-and-true in their efforts to stay competitive. Strategic service management and reverse logistics programs are two strategies to consider introducing into a cost-reduction program. This article explains the ins and outs of strategic service management and reverse logistics.