Discussion board # 1
Describe why a manager needs to understand the characteristics and importance of financial markets, including their liquidity, competitiveness, and efficiency.
Respond to post:
A manager needs to understand the company's financial strengths and weaknesses, of itself and of its competitors, to make sound strategic decisions. Whether it be to sell off shares, invest in new technology, borrow money, or buy new assets, any big decision needs analysis to ensure the move made is the correct one. Aspects like liquidity will tell a manager whether it has enough cash or assets available to meet its liability obligations, competitiveness will tell them whether they are within industry average or risking overpricing or underselling itself in the market, and efficiency tells them whether money is being wasted or left on the table for utilization. A full ratio analysis will tell the manager a lot of what they need to know to make informed decisions.
Discussion Board #2
Two investments have an expected life of 5 years. One promises to pay 6% annual interest and the other 10%. Which investment would you select based on the differences in expected rates of return on the two investments? Explain.
Discussion board # 3
Discuss the benefits and pitfalls of using social media and other technologies in risk and crisis communication. What methods or key aspects must be considered when dealing with a crisis situation?
Respond to post:
Social media is a beautiful tool. It has connected people all over the world. It has also become very controversial based on what someone may or may not consider to be offensive. Posts have gotten people removed from their jobs, suspended from jobs and school and even in trouble with the law.
Dealing with a crisis depends on what type of crisis. Some basic principles for all crisis is to:
1. Do not rush to respond without careful thought
2. Do delay the response very long
3. Make sure you are very informed before responding
4. Be clear and concise. All information does not need to be shared
5. Stand on what you believe
6. Keep moving forward. Never wallow in the crises
Discussion board # 4
Jane Jordan-Meier has stated that when journalists report on a crisis, they are more likely to side with the victim rather than with big business in their story's approach. Do you agree with this statement? Why, or why not?
