Finals' Question #4

Finals' Question #4

TOPIC: THE KNOWLEDGE - BASED SYSTEMS (KBS)

Question # 3:
1. Describe or define KBS.

a knowledge-based system as a computer system that is programmed to imitate human problem-solving by means of artificial intelligence and reference to a database of knowledge on a particular subject and it is a computer program that reasons and uses knowledge to solve complex problems. Traditionally, computers have solved complex problems using arithmetic algorithms created by programmers. With knowledge-based systems human knowledge is captured and embedded explicitly within a program in a symbolic format.It is a program for extending and/or querying a knowledge base.

2. Distinguish KBS from MIS.

Knowledge based systems provide a flexible, user definable and highly scalable solution to these problems by wedding intelligent multi-agent software with a user-focused graphical interface to provide improved decision making in dynamic environments and improved situational awareness. This approach lends itself to many potential applications in both the military and commercial sectors. Knowledge-based systems enable computers to be broader and more effective problem-solving tools; help users develop better designs and better processes by making the best design and manufacturing expertise readily available; and help users identify relationships among design geometry, materials and production processes, and leverage these relationships to provide the best combination of product features, quality and cost.while, Management information systems are those systems that allow managers to make decisions for the successful operation of businesses. Management information systems consist of computer resources, people, and procedures used in the modern business enterprise. The term MIS stands for management information systems. MIS also refers to the organization that develops and maintains most or all of the computer systems in the enterprise so that managers can make decisions. The goal of the MIS organization is to deliver information systems to the various levels of corporate managers. MIS professionals create and support the computer system throughout the company.

3. Illustrate (give examples) how KBS can improve company's competitive advantage and organizational performance.

KBS can improve the companys competitive advantage by
Emerging out of value and process theories, the idea of knowledge in the form of human capability or human resources as key in driving organizational performance and success has received more than adequate attention in the academic literature on management and organizational development since its invention and inception. Knowledge workers are important and key strategic resources in modern learning organizations; they are value creators and value adders whose major contributions come from their abilities to process and apply knowledge and information to completing essential tasks, making decisions, and solving problems. The management of the knowledge worker coincides with the competitive challenges of human resources management

References:
http://www.bookrags.com/research/knowledge-based-systems-csci-03/
http://lionhrtpub.com/IM/IMsubs/IM-2-95/knowledge.html
http://www.tlainc.com/articl150.htm

Finals' Question #3

Finals' Question #3

TOPIC: THE VIRTUAL OFFICE (VO)

1. Describe or define VO

Virtual office-it is a term for shared office services, which normally includes business address, mail & courier services, phone services, fax services, answering services, web-hosting services, and meeting & conference facilities.Certain providers of virtual office services will provide other in-house or outsourced services such as corporate secretarial services, accounting services, or legal services. Professional firms such as law firms and accounting firms often provide registered address services as part of their service offerings.

Virtual office is also a common term for an environment that enables a network of co-workers to run a business efficiently by using nothing other than online communication technologies.It depends on the focus, whether it be to improve individual worker productivity, hire and retain employees from virtually anywhere, reduce costs of operations, reduce travel time, or outsource functions.

2. Distinguish VO from MIS.

Virtual office services will provide other in-house or outsourced services such as corporate secretarial services, accounting services, or legal services. Professional firms such as law firms and accounting firms often provide registered address services as part of their service offerings.
while Management Information Systems are distinct from regular information systems in that they are used to analyze other information systems applied in operational activities in the organization. Academically, the term is commonly used to refer to the group of information management methods tied to the automation or support of human decision making.'MIS' is a planned system of collecting, processing, storing and disseminating data in the form of information needed to carry out the functions of management.

3. Illustrate (give examples) how VO can improve company's competitive advantage and organizational performance.

Virtual Office can improve company's competitive advantage and organization performance by:
-Allowing employees to work from home can give a company a certain competitive advantages including the ability to hire highly qualified individuals who may not otherwise commute to work and the ability to replicate the traditional office environment for frequent traveling employees and mobile work force.

-Implementation of IP-based technologies such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and computer telephony integration (CTI) technology and use of collaborative technologies for meetings and document sharing. In particular, the implementation of teleconferencing technologies allows workers to be very productive and collaborate with other workers without the burden and expense of travel.

-Implementation of virtual office technologies allow the company to reduce cost of operations through a variety of methods including outsourcing to cheaper labor markets, reducing expenses associated with travel. Other methods of reducing costs include implementation of IP-based technologies such as IP-PBX and VoIP over Wireless LAN, which may provide the advantage of mobility as well as low cost communications.

-The use of conference calling and teleconferencing can significantly reduce the amount of travel time necessary for meetings and collaborative work sessions. These applications and services are largely dependent on IP-based technologies.




references:

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

http://www.mobilein.com/Perspectives/trends_VirtualOffice.http

Holusha, John. "Commercial Property/Business Centers; Modern Office for Rent: Daily Rates Available." The New York Times. May 20, 2001.
China Business Guide 2005 By Graham Earnshaw, Michael Pennington, Page 164.
Telecommuting and Virtual Offices: Issues and Opportunities, By Nancy J. Johnso

FINAL BLOG Question # 2:

1.Decision Support Systems (DSS)

- are a specific class of computerized information system that supports business and organizational decision-making activities. A properly-designed DSS is an interactive software-based system intended to help decision makers compile useful information from raw data, documents, personal knowledge, and/or business models to identify and solve problems and make decisions.

-Abbreviated DSS, the term refers to an interactive computerized system that gathers and presents data from a wide range of sources, typically for business purposes. DSS applications are systems and subsystems that help people make decisions based on data that is culled from a wide range of sources.

-DSS applications are not single information resources, such as a database or a program that graphically represents sales figures, but the combination of integrated resources working together.

2.Distinguish DSS from MIS

The terms MIS and DSS stand for Management Information Systems and Decision Support Systems respectively. There has been a lot of talk regarding these two, whether they are actually the same thing or if there are any significant differences between the two.

MIS is basically a kind of link to facilitate communcation between managers across different areas in a business organization. MIS plays a pivotal role in enabling communications across the floor of an organization, between various entities therein.

DSS, many consider, is an advancement from the original MIS. However,this is not the sole difference between the two. While there may not be too much separating the two, the difference is still there,as is apparent when we say DSS is an advancement over MIS. The essential difference between the two is in focus.

DSS, as the term indicates, is about leadership and senior management in an organization providing good, reliable judgment as well as vision.

3. Illustrate (give examples) how DSS can improve company's competitive advantage and organizational performance

DDS can improve company's competitive advantage and organizational performance by First, once the DSS is implemented, it must be used and it must become a major or significant strength or capability of the organization. Second, the DSS must be unique and proprietary to the organization. Third, the advantage provided by the DSS must be sustainable until an adequate payback is received, usually at least three years. Managers who are searching for strategic investments in information technology need to keep these three criteria in mind. Just because a vendor says a product will create a competitive advantage doesn’t make the claim true. A competitive advantage means an organization does something important much better than its competitors.

If a company is trying to develop a decision support system that provides a competitive advantage, managers and analysts should ask how the proposed DSS affects company costs, customer and supplier relations, and managerial effectiveness. Managers should also attempt to assess how the proposed strategic system will impact the structure of the industry and the behavior of competitors. Finally, companies must continuously improve their information and decision support technology to gain and maintain any competitive advantage.

For example, information technology has altered the bargaining relationships between companies and their suppliers, channels and buyers. Today it is easy for information systems to cross company boundaries. These inter-organizational systems have become common and, in some instances, they have changed the boundaries of the participating industries. Decision support systems can reduce the power of buyers and suppliers. Decision support systems can erect new barriers that reduce the threat of entrants. Decision support systems can help differentiate products and services and reduce the threat from substitutes. Also, decision support systems can help managers reduce the cost of rivalry actions and, in some cases, reduce the need for competitive actions and reactions.



References:
Kettinger, W., Grover, V., Guha, S., and Segars, A., “Strategic Information Systems Revisited,” MIS Quarterly, 1994, pp. 31-55.

Porter, M. E. and V. E. Millar, “How Information Gives You Competitive Advantage,” Harvard Business Review, July-August, 1985.

Porter, M. E., "How Competitive Forces Shape Strategy," Harvard Business Review, March-April, 1979.

Power, D. J., Decision Support Systems Hyperbook. Cedar Falls, IA: DSSResources.COM, HTML version, Fall 2000, accessed on November 6, 2007.

Power, D. J., Decision Support Systems: Concepts and Resources for Managers, Quorum/Greenwood, 2002.

Finals Blog #1 - ASUS

Research one company from the Internet and describe their MIS strategic plan in 1-2 paragraphs. Discuss too the impact of this strategic plan on the company's management, competitors, customers and the company as a whole.Evaluate how can this strategic plan be applied to any local company in the Philippines. Discuss too the possible effect on the company.Include your reference.

CUSTOMERS

• Passion for Technology Technology is the heart of ASUS. We continue to invest in our world-class Research and Development so that we are always able to provide leading-edge innovations to people and businesses.
• Quality Quality is of utmost importance to ASUS. We continue to refine our quality management process to ensure customers receive quality solutions cost effectively.
• Long-term Relationships Whether they are our customers, media, shareholders or consumers, we believe in growing with our partners at all levels. Relationships with those key stakeholders are one of the most important factors of our continuing success.
• Perseverance All ASUS employees share the same sense of purpose. We thrive under pressure and we look forward to challenges. And all of us are working to accomplish the same mission, to empower people with innovative IT solutions.

MANAGEMENT PHILOSOPHY

• Inspire, motivate and support our employees to realize their highest potential
• Commit to integrity and diligence; focus on fundamentals and results
• Endlessly pursue to be number 1 in the areas of quality, speed, service, innovation and cost-efficiency
• Strive to be among the world-class high-tech leaders and to provide valuable contributions to humanity

COMPETITORS

As a major player of the IT industry, ASUS has established its corporate mission: Provide innovative IT solutions that empower people and businesses reaching their full potential. The philosophy of ASUS product development is to do the fundamentals well first before moving forward. Started with computer components such as motherboards, graphic cards, and optical storage devices, ASUS now has now over 16 product lines, including desktop barebone systems, servers, notebooks, handhelds, network devices, broadband communications, LCD monitors, TVs, wireless applications, and CPT (chassis, power supply and thermal) products.

blog # 3

SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM - GENERAL SANTOS CITY

Social security primarily refers to social welfare service concerned with social protection, or protection against socially recognized conditions, including poverty, old age, disability, unemployment and others. Although some publications use the terms "social security" and "social protection" interchangeably, social security is used both more narrowly (to refer only to schemes with the formal title of 'social security') and more widely (referring to many kinds of social welfare schemes). Social security may refer to:social insurance, where people receive benefits or services in recognition of contributions to an insurance scheme. These services typically include provision for retirement pensions, disability insurance, survivor benefits and unemployment insurance.

income maintenance—mainly the distribution of cash in the event of interruption of employment, including retirement, disability and unemploymentservices provided by administrations responsible for social security. In different countries this may include medical care, aspects of social work and even industrial relations.More rarely, the term is also used to refer to basic security, a term roughly equivalent to access to basic necessities—things such as food, clothing, shelter, education and medical care.

Computerazation has its own advantages and disadvantages. One of its advantages is that it work faster and easier as well as paper less. However, the disavantages is that if one's system fails, the job to be done is great and costly not to mention that the workers/encoders has nothing to do since almost all works/jobs now are computers dependent.
Big companies usally have back-ups of their databases. This is to prevent loss of all datas/transactions if its main data base fails.

post #2

Research 1 company and describe how they protect their company from internet risks.Also, research for possible risks or dangers and/or impacts of internet - related crimes to a company.

Western Union is a worldwide leader in money transfer and messaging services. Famous for its pioneering telegraph services, the original Western Union dates back to 1851 and introduced electronic money transfer service in 1871. Western Union Commercial Services is a division of Western Union Financial Services, which is a subsidiary of First Data Corp. (NYSE: FDC). Atlanta-based First Data Corp. helps move the world's money. As the leader in electronic commerce and payment services, First Data serves more than two million merchant locations, 1,400 card issuers and millions of consumers, making it easier, faster and more secure for people and businesses to buy goods and services.Related crime to a company
Western Union has been the conduit of a lot of fraud. But since they're not the victim, they don't care much about security. It's an externality to them. It took a lawsuit to convince them to take security seriously.Western Union, one of the world's most frequently used money transfer services, will begin warning its customers against possible fraud in their transactions.

Persuading consumers to send wire transfers, particularly to Canada, has been a popular method for con artists. Recent scams include offering consumers counterfeit cashier's checks, advance-fee loans and phony lottery winnings.
More than $113 million was swindled in 2002 from U.S. residents through wire transfer fraud to Canada alone, according to a survey conducted by investigators in seven states.
Washington was one of 10 states that negotiated an $8.5 million settlement with Western Union. Most of the settlement would fund a national program to counsel consumers against telemarketing fraud.
In addition to the money, the company has agreed to increase fraud awareness at more than 50,000 locations, develop a computer program that would spot likely fraud-induced transfers before they are completed and block transfers from specific consumers to specific recipients when the company receives fraud information from state authorities.

BLOG POST # 7

Research 1 company that makes use of E-commerce. Describe the nature of this company in 1-2 paragraphs.

Identify then, how does this company use e-commerce to achieve strategic advantage. Describe the benefits derived from this strategy.

G-Pass made it’s debut last Friday at the MRT stations from Cubao to Ayala. I tried it out myself. I’d say it’s pleasantly better than I was expecting.

Here’s some additional info that people should know about …

What is G-Pass?

An alternative way to enter the MRT using a chip instead of a ticket. The G-Pass is stored value chip that is tapped on a sensor upon entry and exit from the MRT. The chip can be re-loaded with MRT fare credits using G-Cash or through a G-Pass reloading booth.

• The G-Pass kit is purchased for P100 at G-Pass booths in MRT stations. It includes P50 worth of MRT fare credits (not cellphone load as some users think).
• The G-Pass does *NOT* need to be registered. The manual says so. The chip can be immediately activated and used just by tapping the chip on the G-Pass sensor.
• But registering the G-Pass has added features. Registration of the G-Pass can be done at the G-Pass booth, or through any Globe SIM. Registration establishes a “link” between the G-Pass and a Globe SIM.
• An SMS message is sent to the Globe SIM each time a registered G-Pass is used. Balance inquiries can also be done through the Globe SIM.
• G-Pass can be loaded using G-Cash or through a G-Pass booth at MRT stations.
• Any G-Cash user can load any G-Pass chip as long as they know the serial number of the G-Pass chip.
• The service is currently available at stations from Cubao to Ayala and vice-versa. (Cubao, Santolan, Ortigas, Shaw, Boni, Guadalupe, Buendia, Ayala). (as of July30 2006) (I was able to enter the GMA-Kamuning south-bound station on july30).
• G-Pass has an additional 5% service charge on top of the MRT fare. As an example, for a P10 MRT fare, P10.50 will be deducted from the G-Pass credits where 50 centavos is the service charge.
• The G-Pass needs to have at least P16 credits to entr the MRT.
• The G-Pass can be loaded as much as P2,000
• The G-Pass is valid for three years.

Blog # 6

Blog # 6

Research one multinational corporation like Procter and Gamble, Unilever, IBM, Microsoft, Honda and etc. Identify and describe how their subsidiaries are managed and how technology has assisted them in their corporate and/or local operations. Further, identify one Philippine company that has gone worldwide (eg. Jollibee and BENCH) and describe their strategies. Evaluate the strategies of foreign companies with that of Philippine corporations.

HONDA

History

In October 1946, Soichiro Honda established the Honda Technical Research Institute in Hamamatsu, Japan, to develop and produce small 2-cycle motorbike engines. Two years later, Honda Motor Company, Ltd. was born, and in 1959 Honda opened its first storefront in Los Angeles with six industrious employees.

Operations Overview

We opened our first U.S. plant in 1979 and have evolved into a company that directly employs more than 25,000 Americans. More than 100,000 workers are employed at authorized Honda automobile, motorcycle and power-equipment dealerships in the United States. Tens of thousands of additional Americans are employed by more than nearly 600 U.S. suppliers from which Honda purchases parts and materials. Honda is proud to provide jobs that help better the American economy and will continue to work hard to do so.

- How Honda manage their Subsidiary -

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Subsidiaries

1. General and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

(a) Description of Business
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (the "Company") and its subsidiaries (collectively "Honda") develop, manufacture, distribute and provide financing for the sale of its motorcycles, automobiles and power products. Honda's manufacturing operations are principally conducted in 32 separate factories, 4 of which are located in Japan. Principal overseas manufacturing facilities are located in the United States of America, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Brazil and Turkey.
Net sales and other operating revenue by category of activity for the year ended March 31, 2006 were derived from: motorcycle business 12.4%, automobile business 80.8%, financial services 3.1%, and power products and other businesses 3.7%. Operating income by category of activity for the year ended March 31, 2006 was derived from: motorcycle business 13.1%, automobile business 72.3%, financial services 10.4%, and power products and other businesses 4.2%. The total assets at March 31, 2006 were attributable to: motorcycle business 9.5%, automobile business 45.0%, financial services 47.4%, power products and other businesses 2.8%, and corporate assets (net of company-wide accounts eliminated in consolidation) (4.7%).
Honda sells motorcycles, automobiles and power products in most countries in the world. For the year ended March 31, 2006, 79.6% of net sales and other operating revenue (¥7,885,997 million; $67,132 million) was derived from subsidiaries operating outside Japan (2005: ¥6,666,923 million, 2004: ¥6,283,459 million). Net sales and other operating revenue for the year ended March 31, 2006 was geographically broken down based on the location of customers as follows: Japan 17.1%, North America 55.1%, Europe 10.2%, Asia 11.0% and others 6.6%. For the year ended March 31, 2006, 57.8% of operating income (¥502,410 million; $4,277 million) was generated from foreign subsidiaries, disregarding the effect of elimination of unrealized profits between domestic operations and foreign operations (2005: ¥456,282 million, 2004: ¥404,464 million). Also, 74.3% of Honda's assets at March 31, 2006 (¥7,854,270 million; $66,862 million) was identified with foreign operations (2005: ¥6,597,463 million).

(b)Basis of Presenting Consolidated Financial Statements
The Company and its domestic subsidiaries maintain their books of account in conformity with financial accounting standards of Japan, and its foreign subsidiaries generally maintain their books of account in conformity with those of the countries of their domicile.
The consolidated financial statements presented herein have been prepared in a manner and reflect the adjustments which are necessary to conform them with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

(c) Consolidation Policy
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its subsidiaries and those variable interest entities where the Company is the primary beneficiary under FASB Interpretation No.46 (revised December 2003), "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities". All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Investments in affiliates in which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over their operating and financial policies, but where the Company does not have a controlling financial interest are accounted for using the equity method.
Minority interests in net assets and income are not significant and, accordingly, are not presented separately in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and statements of income. The amount of minority interest recognized in earnings, included in other expenses-other, for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2006 were ¥11,753 million, ¥11,559 million and ¥15,287 million ($130million), respectively.

(d) Use of Estimates
Management of Honda has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, allowance for credit losses, allowance for losses on lease residual values, valuation allowance for inventories and deferred tax assets, impairment of long-lived assets, product warranty, and assets and obligations related to employee benefits. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(e) Revenue Recognition
Sales of manufactured products are recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, title and risk of loss have passed to the customers, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility is probable.
Honda provides dealer incentives passed on to the end customers generally in the form of below-market interest rate loans or lease programs. The amount of interest or lease subsidies paid is the difference between the amount offered to retail customers and a market-based interest or lease rate. Honda also provides dealer incentives retained by the dealer, which generally represent discounts provided by Honda to the dealers. These incentives are classified as a reduction of sales revenue as the consideration is paid in cash and Honda does not receive an identifiable benefit in exchange for this consideration. The estimated costs are accrued at the time the product is sold to the dealer.
Interest income from finance receivables is recognized using the interest method. Finance receivable origination fees and certain direct origination costs are deferred, and the net fee or cost is amortized using the interest method over the contractual life of the finance receivables.
Finance subsidiaries of the Company periodically sell finance receivables. Gain or loss is recognized equal to the difference between the cash proceeds received and the carrying value of the receivables sold and is recorded in the period in which the sale occurs. Honda allocates the recorded investment in finance receivables between the portion(s) of the receivables sold and portion(s) retained based on the relative fair values of those portions on the date the receivables are sold. Honda recognizes gains or losses attributable to the change in the fair value of the retained interests, which are recorded at estimated fair value and accounted for as "trading" securities. Honda determines the fair value of the retained interests by discounting the future cash flows. Those cash flows are estimated based on prepayments, credit losses and other information as available and are discounted at a rate which Honda believes is commensurate with the risk free rate plus a risk premium. A servicing asset or liability is amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. Servicing assets and servicing liabilities at March 31, 2005 and 2006 were not significant.

(f) Cash Equivalents
Honda considers all highly liquid debt instruments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.

(g) Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost, determined principally by the first-in, first-out method, or market.

(h) Investments in Securities
Honda classifies its debt and equity securities in one of three categories: available-for-sale, trading, or held-to-maturity. Debt securities that are classified as "held-to-maturity" securities are reported at amortized cost. Debt and equity securities classified as "trading" securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings. Other debt and equity securities are classified as "available-for- sale" securities and are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses, net of deferred taxes included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the stockholders' equity section of the consolidated balance sheets. Honda did not hold any "trading" securities at March 31, 2005 and 2006, except for retained interests in the sold pools of finance receivables, which are accounted for as "trading" securities and included in finance subsidiariesreceivables.
Honda periodically reviews the fair value of investment securities. If the fair value of investment securities has declined below our cost basis and such decline is judged to be other-than-temporary, Honda recognizes the impairment of the investment securities and the carrying value is reduced to its fair value through a charge to income. The determination of other-than-temporary impairment is based upon an assessment of the facts and circumstances related to each investment security. In determining the nature and extent of impairment, Honda considers such factors as financial and operating conditions of the issuer, the industry in which the issuer operates, degree and period of the decline in fair value and other relevant factors.

(i) Goodwill
Goodwill is not amortized but instead is tested for impairment at least annually. Goodwill is considered impaired if its estimated fair value is less than the carrying value. Honda completed its annual test effective March 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 and concluded no impairment needed to be recognized. The carrying amount of goodwill at March 31, 2005 and 2006 was ¥17,887 million and ¥27,951 million ($238 million), respectively.

(j) Depreciation
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is calculated principally by the declining-balance method based on estimated useful lives and salvage values of the respective assets.
The estimated useful lives used in computing depreciation of property, plant and equipment are as follows:

(k) Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of
Honda's long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles having finite useful lives are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the estimated fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of by sale are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or estimated fair value less costs to sell.

(l) Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that includes the enactment date.

(m) Product-Related Expenses
Advertising and sales promotion costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expenses for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2006 were ¥239,332 million, ¥246,997 million and ¥287,901 million ($2,451 million), respectively. Provisions for estimated costs related to product warranty are made at the time the products are sold to customers or new warranty programs are initiated. Estimated warranty expenses are provided based on historical warranty claim experience with consideration given to the expected level of future warranty costs as well as current information on repair costs. Included in warranty expenses accruals are costs for general warranties on vehicles Honda sells and product recalls.

(n) Basic Net Income per Common Share
Basic net income per common share has been computed by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each year. The weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the years ended March 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 was 953,638,262, 933,767,978 and 920,399,836 respectively. There were no potentially dilutive shares outstanding during the years ended March 31, 2004, 2005 or 2006.

(o)Foreign Currency Translation
Foreign currency financial statement amounts are translated into Japanese yen on the basis of the year-end rate for all assets and liabilities and the weighted average rate for the year for all income and expense amounts. Translation adjustments resulting therefrom are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the stockholders' equity section of the consolidated balance sheets.
Foreign currency receivables and payables are translated at the applicable current rates on the balance sheet date. All revenue and expenses associated with foreign currencies are converted at the rates of exchange prevailing when such transactions occur. The resulting exchange gains or losses are reflected in other income (expense) in the consolidated statements of income.
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses) included in other income (expenses)—other for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2006 are as follows:

(p)Derivative Financial Instruments
Honda has entered into foreign exchange agreements and interest rate agreements to manage currency and interest rate exposures. These instruments include foreign currency forward contracts, currency swap agreements, currency option contracts and interest rate swap agreements.
Honda recognizes the fair value of all derivative financial instruments in its consolidated balance sheet.
Starting from the year ended March 31, 2006, Honda adopted hedge accounting for certain foreign currency forward contracts related to forecasted foreign currency transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries. These are designated as cash flow hedges on the date derivative contracts entered into. The Company has a currency rate risk management policy documented. In addition, it documents all relationships between all derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges and the relevant hedged items to identify the relationship between them. The Company assesses, both at the hedge's inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedge are highly effective to offset changes in cash flows of hedged items.
When it is determined that a derivative financial instrument is not highly effective as a cash flow hedge, when the hedged item matures, is sold or is terminated, or when it is identified that the forecasted transaction is no longer probable, the Company discontinues hedge accounting. To the extent derivative financial instruments are designated as cash flow hedges and have been assessed as being highly effective, changes in their fair value are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). The amounts are reclassified into earnings in the period when forecasted hedged transactions affect earnings. When these cash flow hedges prove to be ineffective, changes in the fair value of the derivatives are immediately recognized in earnings.
In conformity with Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No.133, changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments not designated as accounting hedges are recognized in earnings in the period of the change.
The amount recognized in earnings included in other income (expenses)—other during the year ended March 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are ¥122,583 million gain, ¥44,905 million gain and ¥55,516 million ($473 million) loss, respectively. In relation to this, the Company included gains and losses on translation of debts of finance subsidiaries denominated in foreign currencies intended to be hedged of ¥36,410 million loss, ¥10,667 million gain and ¥45,046 million ($383 million) gain in other income (expenses)—other during the years ended March 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. In addition, net realized gains and losses on interest rate swap contracts not designated as accounting hedges by finance subsidiaries of ¥38,894 million loss, ¥28,000 million loss and ¥827 million ($7 million) gain are included in other income (expenses)—other during the years ended March 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. These gains and losses are presented on a net basis.
Honda doesn't hold any derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.

(q) Shipping and Handling Costs
Shipping and handling costs included in selling, general and administrative expenses for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2006 are as follows:

(r) Asset Retirement Liability
During the year ended March 31, 2006, Honda adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. (FIN) 47, "Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement obligations-an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 143". FIN47 clarifies the term conditional asset retirement obligation as used in SFAS No. 143 and requires a liability to be recorded if the fair value of the obligation can be reasonably estimated. Asset retirement obligations covered by this Interpretation include those for which an entity has a legal obligation to perform an asset retirement activity, however the timing and (or) method of settling the obligation are conditional on a future event that may or may not be within the control of the entity.
Adoption of FIN47 had no material impact on Honda's consolidated financial position or results of operations.

(s) New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
In November 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 151, "Inventory Costs, an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) No. 43, Chapter 4." SFAS No. 151 amends the guidance in ARB No.43, "Inventory Pricing," for abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted material (spoilage) requiring that those items be recognized as current-period expenses regardless of whether they meet the criterion of "so abnormal," as described in ARB No. 43. This statement also requires that allocation of fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. The statement is effective for inventory costs incurred during the fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. Management does not expect this statement to have a material impact on Honda's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
In March 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 156, "Accounting for Servicing of Financial Assets". This statement amends SFAS No. 140, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities", with respect to the accounting for separately recognized servicing assets and servicing liabilities. SFAS No. 156 gives revised guidance as to when servicing assets and servicing liabilities should be recognized. It also revises guidance regarding the initial and subsequent measurement of servicing assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 156 is effective as of the beginning of an entity's first fiscal year that begins after September 15, 2006, with early adoption being permitted. Management is currently in process of determining whether to early adopt this statement and quantifying the financial impact of adoption. It is not anticipated that adoption will have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations.

(t) Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years' consolidated financial statements to conform to the presentation used for the year ended March 31, 2006. In the current year, management has classified cash dividends received from affiliates in operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. Consequently management has revised the consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended March 31, 2004 and 2005 to include such cash dividends in operating activities, instead of investing activities, to achieve a comparable presentation for all periods presented herein.

2. Basis of Translating Financial Statements

The consolidated financial statements are expressed in Japanese yen. However, the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended March 31, 2006 have been translated into United States dollars at the rate of ¥117.47= U.S.$1, the approximate exchange rate prevailing on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2006. Those U.S. dollar amounts presented in the consolidated financial statements and related notes are included solely for the reader. This translation should not be construed as a representation that all the amounts shown could be converted into U.S. dollars.

bLOG # 5 As a future manager, What is your computer ethics program? Justify each activity.

AS A FUTURE MANAGER,my computer ethics program are as follows

Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people: If it is unethical to harm people by making a bomb, for example, it is equally bad to write a program that handles the timing of the bomb. Or, to put it more simply, if it is bad to steal and destroy other people’s books and notebooks, it is equally bad to access and destroy their files.

Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work: Computer viruses are small programs that disrupt other people’s computer work by destroying their files, taking huge amounts of computer time or memory, or by simply displaying annoying messages. Generating and consciously spreading computer viruses is unethical.

Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's files: Reading other people’s e-mail messages is as bad as opening and reading their letters: This is invading their privacy. Obtaining other people’s non-public files should be judged the same way as breaking into their rooms and stealing their documents. Text documents on the Internet may be protected by encryption.

Thou shalt not use a computer to steal: Using a computer to break into the accounts of a company or a bank and transferring money should be judged the same way as robbery. It is illegal and there are strict laws against it.

Thou shalt not use a computer to bear false witness: The Internet can spread untruth as fast as it can spread truth. Putting out false "information" to the world is bad. For instance, spreading false rumors about a person or false propaganda about historical events is wrong.

Thou shalt not use or copy software for which you have not paid: Software is an intellectual product. In that way, it is like a book: Obtaining illegal copies of copyrighted software is as bad as photocopying a copyrighted book. There are laws against both. Information about the copyright owner can be embedded by a process called watermarking into pictures in the digital format.

If you are just a student of RMMC and not currently working, cite a manual procedure here in our school which you prefer to computerize. Describe how this system should function and how can this help the employees and the students of RMMC.

-For me I think I can suggest that using the computerize device the Employees will just simply press their THUMBS rather than writing on the paper for LOG IN AND LOG OUT.It is easier and faster way of filling up their DAILY TIME RECORD (DTR). For there are instances that the teachers are rushing out of time and its easy for them to fill up information which is accurate..

Post # 3: MIS TRENDS

1. MIS USERS ARE MORE KNOWLEDGEABLE.

-for me i agree, because MIS users are more updated in the information that is necessary for the business.Their knowledge is more broader than those who are not too much engage in the Management information system.As what they say that having right information is more competitive than anything else.

2.MORE COMPUTING POWER IS AVAILABLE TO THE USER.

-the user have many options to do the computation more faster and become more productive in a lesser time consumed.The computation also become more easier to do.

3.RESISTANCE TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EMERGING MIS IS SUBSIDING.

- the implementation of MIS is very important because it really help the company and the business to grow thats why most in the industry world prefer to accept the essential of the MIS.

4.CONNECTIVITY.

- in terms of connectivity,MIS have a great effect for the business to communicate other form of information resources.Thus, communication is one of the important aspect to be consider in any kind of business.The information if there is connection to other is very easy to do the job.

5.MIS IS BECOMING ONE OF THE INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY.

- the use of MIS really increase the productivity of the business,because it is accurate,updated,faster,and less of time consuming while doing the job.

6.COMPANIES ARE USING MIS AS A COMPETITIVE STRATEGY.

-the companies nowadays prefer to get and deliver information through MIS, because the information is at the right time and it help the company to decide what is the best form of strategy they will going to apply.they can get and have knowledge what strategy of their other competitors.

7.MIS IS BECOMING INTEGRAL TO THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS.

-yes, The use of MIS have a big part for the business decision making because information will give the accurate thing to do. It is easy to decide if the information is correct.

8.THE END USER IS BECOMING THE FOCUS OF MIS ACTIVITY.

-for me all must become the focus of MIS activity so that all who are engage in the business will become more competitive and can survive the business industry...

Post #2: HOW CAN THE MANAGER & EMPLOYEES MAKE USE OF THE INFORMATION AS THE STRATEGIC/COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OVER THEIR COMPETITIONS?

ans. So that the company will have advantage through other competitors, less information will lead the company behind to the other.New strategy is very essential in the business industry espicially when the company knows already the pick line of their business standing. the Manager and the Management should think and plan new strategy in order to have a better and competitive outcome for the business. Being more aware and Updated will really help the business grow, more profitable and productive.

MOST STRIKING IDEA OF MIS:

for me the most striking idea of MIS was the importance of having knowledge of management information system...y? because it is so difficult to communicate with the wrong information espicially for the soburdinates and the manager..Wrong information will lead the company ineffective and having hard time to send the message to all the employees, sometimes it will be the cause of trouble,downfall of the company..Having a knowledge of MIS will help all the things become easy and less time consumed..lesser effort..and more productive.

most striking idea

'MIS'

- is a planned system of collecting, processing, storing and disseminating data in the form of information needed to carry out the functions of management. According to Phillip Kotler "A marketing information system consists of people, equipment, and procedures to gather, sort, analyse, evaluate, and distribute needed, timely, and accurate information to marketing decision makers." (Kotler, Phillip and Keller, Kevin Lane; Marketing Management, Pearson Education, 12 Ed, 2006)

The terms MIS and information system are often confused. Information systems include systems that are not intended for decision making. MIS is sometimes referred to, in a restrictive sense, as information technology management. That area of study should not be confused with computer science. IT service management is a practitioner-focused discipline. MIS has also some differences with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) as ERP incorporates elements that are not necessarily focused on decision support