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Answer : C

The use of standard costs will most likely impact the projection of the gross margin for a manufactured item.

Standard Costs: These are predetermined costs based on the estimated costs of materials, labor, and overhead for a product. They serve as a benchmark for measuring performance and controlling costs.

Gross Margin Projection: By using standard costs, companies can more accurately project the gross margin of manufactured items. Gross margin is calculated by subtracting the cost of goods sold from sales revenue, and standard costs help in estimating the cost of goods sold more reliably.

Cost Control: Standard costs facilitate better cost control and variance analysis, allowing companies to identify deviations from expected costs and take corrective actions.

Horngren, C.T., Datar, S.M., & Rajan, M. (2014). Cost Accounting: A Managerial Emphasis. Pearson.

Drury, C. (2018). Management and Cost Accounting. Cengage Learning.

Answer : C

In the storming phase of team development, group members challenge each other and compete to assume leadership roles. This phase is characterized by conflict and competition as individuals assert their opinions and vie for positions within the team. Leadership and transformation management documents describe the storming phase as a critical stage where team dynamics are tested, and effective conflict resolution strategies are essential. Understanding this phase helps leaders facilitate smoother transitions to subsequent stages of team development, such as norming and performing. Reference emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing the challenges inherent in the storming phase to build cohesive and high-performing teams.

Answer : D

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is considered a 'right-to-know' requirement concerning hazardous substances.

HCS Overview: The HCS requires employers to inform employees about the hazards of chemicals they are exposed to in the workplace. This includes proper labeling, safety data sheets, and training on handling hazardous substances.

Right-to-Know: This standard ensures that employees have access to information regarding the hazardous chemicals they may encounter, promoting workplace safety and health.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2012). Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). [Online]. Available: https://www.osha.gov/hazcom

Goetsch, D.L. (2011). Occupational Safety and Health for Technologists, Engineers, and Managers. Prentice Hall.

Answer : A

Issue Identification:

Increased sole source purchases due to inexperience of the sourcing team.

Noncompliance with competitive solicitation policies leading to increased costs.

Rectifying the Situation:

Training Staff: Provides the sourcing team with necessary knowledge and skills to understand and follow solicitation policies, reducing the likelihood of noncompliance.

Reporting Noncompliance: Addresses the issue after it occurs but does not prevent future occurrences.

Improving Audit Procedures: Helps identify issues sooner but does not directly address the root cause (lack of training).

Making Sole Source Review a KPI: Encourages monitoring but does not equip the team with the knowledge to comply.

Conclusion: Training staff in solicitation policies and practices addresses the root cause by ensuring the sourcing team is well-informed and capable of complying with competitive solicitation requirements.

Procurement training programs and resources from the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP)

Best practices in procurement and supply chain management from the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS)

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Answer : D

The most effective course of action for the new manager to improve discipline and create a more positive, productive environment is to meet with human resources to discuss the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment.

Zero-Tolerance Policy: Implementing a zero-tolerance policy sends a clear message that sexual harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This helps in creating a safe and respectful work environment.

HR Collaboration: Working with HR ensures that the policy is well-structured, legally compliant, and effectively communicated to all employees. HR can also provide training and support for the policy's implementation.

Cultural Change: A zero-tolerance policy is a critical step towards changing the department's culture, ensuring that all employees understand the seriousness of the issue and the consequences of violating the policy.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines on sexual harassment.

Burke, R.J., & Cooper, C.L. (2005). Reinventing Human Resource Management: Challenges and New Directions. Routledge.