2008

Showing 17–32 of 608 results

  • Contractor’s toolbox – 5 tips for avoiding tax audit triggers

    Winter 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 471

    Abstract: Paying income taxes is painful enough without the specter of penalties and interest. But that’s just what you’ll incur if an IRS audit reveals you broke the rules. This article offers five tips (such as reporting all business income and watching business deductions) for avoiding those audit triggers that can tax your construction company in more ways than one. (Updated 5/29/12)

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  • Harder than it looks – Changing business structures calls for careful planning

    Winter 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 594

    Abstract: Contractors who are starting new businesses must be careful when choosing the form of ownership, or business structure, for those businesses. This article explains the types of business structure available, how each one operates, and some pitfalls that are inherent with the various structures. A sidebar discusses five things you must consider when choosing a business structure, such as the amount of liability you’re willing to assume and state regulations. (Updated 5/29/12)

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  • Expert witnesses — Surviving Daubert challenges

    March / April 2008
    Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 881

    Abstract: If disputing parties can’t settle their differences, valuators can act as expert witnesses. But increasingly courts hold expert witnesses to a higher standard, considering, among other things, the expert’s education, experience and credentials. This article reviews the history of admissibility of expert witnesses, focusing on the four-pronged test the Supreme Court set up in Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals Inc. to determine the validity of an expert’s methodology. It lists several problems that could lead to exclusion during a Daubert challenge, including mathematical errors and failure to conduct due diligence. (Updated 5/31/12)

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  • Goodwill hunting in divorce

    March / April 2008
    Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 1093

    Abstract: In divorce cases, goodwill is both difficult to define and often understated. Parties — and experts — seldom agree on the value of the business in a marital dissolution situation, especially when substantial intangible assets are involved. Also, state statutes may be ambiguous, legal precedent is inconsistent and courts may be granted significant leeway in divvying up business assets. This article examines a hypothetical divorce case and finds that attorneys and valuators need to understand applicable state statutes and case law. (Updated 5/31/12)

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  • Taking care of business – 5 do’s and don’ts for your BDC

    Spring 2008
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 819

    Abstract: A Business Development Center (BDC) can be a multitasking powerhouse for your dealership, helping you retain customers while turning prospects into buyers. The benefits of this enterprise can far outweigh the costs. Whether you’re just starting up your BDC or evaluating an established one, here are five do’s and don’ts to consider. (Updated 4/30/12)

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  • Employee fraud – Many scams start in the finance department

    Spring 2008
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 823

    Abstract: Employee fraud — sadly, it can strike any kind of business, including auto dealerships, and it costs consumers and business owners millions of dollars each year. You can protect against fraud and, in the process, protect your dealership’s reputation and your industry’s. But you’ve got to know how to recognize the beast before you can hunt it. (Updated 4/30/12)

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  • Professional employment organizations – Should a third party handle your most important asset?

    Winter 2008
    Newsletter: Auto Focus

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 598

    Abstract: In today’s business environment, where ways to cut costs while improving performance are revered, the outsourcing of many operating functions is widespread. But when it comes to the service-oriented world of the auto dealership, should you let a third party handle your most important asset — your people? An increasing number of dealerships are doing just that, turning to professional employment organizations (PEOs) to hire and fire employees, handle the related HR paperwork, and provide employee benefits. Here are some issues to consider before making a decision. (Updated 4/30/12)

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  • Fraud in the footnotes – Omitted financial statement disclosures often tell tales

    May / June 2008
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 741

    Abstract: Omissions in the footnotes of financial statements may distort assets, revenues, liabilities and expenses. Such distortions can prove relevant to a range of legal matters, including shareholder disputes, D&O liability, and mergers and acquisitions. This article lists common types of fraudulent omissions and explains how forensic accountants unearth critical information. (Updated 3/31/12)

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  • E-mail evidence: Handle with care

    January / February 2008
    Newsletter: Advocate's Edge / Litigation Support

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 620

    Abstract: E-mail has assumed a prominent evidentiary role in all types of litigation. Proper handling of e-mail evidence is critical — the consequences of improper handling can range from sanctions to adverse jury instructions to devastating damages awards. To avoid these consequences, readers are encouraged to engage a forensic accounting expert who knows where to find hidden evidence and protect it from tampering. (Updated 3/31/12)

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  • Contractor’s toolbox – Tighten up job schedules without sacrificing quality

    Fall 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 417

    Abstract: Building lean schedules is not only a prerequisite to getting through hard economic times; it’s a key to more profits in the future. This article explores several ways contractors can tighten up job schedules, such as building extra time into the schedule, making sure sites are ready when subcontractors arrive, starting new jobs on the same day each week (to better coordinate with subs and suppliers), and many others. (Updated 3/20/12)

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  • High-tech vs. hands-on training

    Fall 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 417

    Abstract: Contractors have traditionally used on-site, face-to-face training to instruct workers in procedures, safety, personal protection equipment and job functions. Although there’s nothing wrong with this conventional approach, there’s an alternative that can be equally, if not more, effective. This brief article goes into the pros and cons of both hands-on instruction and computer-based training through DVDs, CD-ROMs or the Internet. (Updated 3/20/12)

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  • Construction projects go high-tech with GPS

    Winter 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 348

    Abstract: This article takes a quick look at global positioning system (GPS) technology in construction. Its use is growing as contractors learn how to leverage its capabilities for tracking vehicles and equipment, dispatching crews and supplies, reducing theft, and mapping job sites. It’s an interesting read about cutting-edge technology that’s helping contractors work smarter and more efficiently. (Updated 3/20/12)

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  • Capitalizing vs. discounting — Which appraisal method is appropriate, when?

    January / February 2008
    Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 1057

    Abstract: Under the income valuation method, value is a function of a company’s expected economic benefits and its risk relative to other investment types. The two most common income approaches are capitalization of earnings and discounted future earnings. This article discusses the distinctions of and differences between the two as well as the possible complexities that may arise in the use of the income approach (Updated 2/29/12)

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  • Third time’s a charm — An additional opinion can help resolve disputes

    January / February 2008
    Newsletter: Viewpoint on Value

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 971

    Abstract: Even two unbiased, equally qualified valuation professionals applying sound appraisal practices are unlikely to arrive at exactly the same number. In fact, valuation differences of 10% or more are common — even under ideal circumstances. In litigation, when neither valuator will concede an objective third expert can help settle the dispute. This article discusses third expert selection and uses a hypothetical case to illustrate the important role a third expert can play. (Updated 2/29/12)

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  • Assessing your company’s value — priceless

    Fall 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 608

    Abstract: Contractors often decide to assess their companies’ values because of a change in ownership. But valuations also can be crucial in determining how much they can borrow, whether it’s smart to aggressively grow their businesses or hold steady, and whether their estate plans need updating. This article provides a primer on the three valuation methods typically used when valuing a construction business. A sidebar explains why it’s critical to get a valuation done when preparing to sell a business. (Updated 2/27/12)

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  • Contractor’s toolbox – 5 ways to ensure you hire the best workers

    Summer 2008
    Newsletter: Construction Industry Advisor

    Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50

    Word count: 336

    Abstract: Job candidates should have more than just the right skills; they also should have a good work ethic, integrity and personalities that will fit into the employer’s organization rather than disrupting it. This article discusses five effective screening mechanisms for contractors and what they can reveal about job applicants. (Updated 2/27/12)

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