I need an assignment for my certification, I have submitted an assignment but I got 20 mark out of 100 which is failed . The passing mark is 70 . I need a new assignment but I will share the old assignment and their feedback about my assignment so you can write . It’s very professional training institution so the writing must be professional. 

Attached files  below : 

1 : my assignment which I wrote and failed

2: general guidelines 

3: feedback of my submitted assignment and why I failed 

4 : the questions and requirements of this assignment

– Please read the general guidelines to incorporate it

– please read my assignment and you can use it 

– please read the feedback I received for my assignment so you know what to fix 

– read the questions. 

– must add references

– must be 3000 words

– must add introduction, recommendations, conclusion 

– incorporates examples from SABIC company like you work in Procurement in SABIC which is a company in KSA . You can open their website and get information. 

Running Head: SOURCING ESSENTIALS 1

SOURCING ESSENTIALS 11

Table of Contents

Cover page………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Table of content………………………………………………………………………………………….

Executive summary……………………………………………………………………….

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………

Assignment tasks…………………………………………………………………….

Question 1…………………………………………………………………………………..

a. Evaluate the finances of this organization highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of their position……………………………………………………………………………………………………

b. Provide a justified recommendation as to whether you would consider this organization for a sourcing exercise for Facilities Management Services emphasizing any limit that should be placed on the financial exposure…………………………………………………………………………….

Recommendation…………………………………………………………………………………

Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………………………

List of references……………………………………………………………………………………………..

Executive Summary

Financial statements are very important top any organization in different ways, and they include the fact that the management and owners of any organization base on financial statements in their process of coming up with sensitive and important decisions regarding the organization now that they play a major role in the continued operations of the organization. The financial analysis takes place on such financial statements of the organization with the aim of providing the owners and management of the organization with related statistics that are more detailed and comprehensive. The financial statements are also part of the annual reports of the management of the organization to the stockholders. On the other hand, employers also need such information for them to come up with collaborative bargaining agreements with their respective employees. Also, employees need financial statement information for them to be assured of their employment position within the organization, in the event that organization is a going concern or not. Prospective investors make use of the financial statements in assessing how viable it is for them to invest in the organization. Investors, in most cases, make use of financial analysis that has been prepared by professionals and uses such analysis as a basis for coming up with investment related decisions. Financial institutions make use of financial statements related information in making business decisions as to whether to offer credit facilities to an organization or not. This financial statement assessment involves the analysis of individual statement in the balance sheet as well as assessment of their impact to the organization. It will also take into consideration the possible recommendations in relation to the financial statements after the analysis. The paper will also assess the income statement of the organization in question and come up with recommendations on ways of reducing costs while at the same time increasing profits in an effort to increase the equity of the organization by retained earnings that can be used in expanding the organization. It will also highlight the impact of the suggested recommendations to the entire position of the organization as well as the individual financial statements.

Introduction

The main aim of the financial statement is to offer all the stakeholders with the relevant information on the financial position of the organization, performances of the organization, and the changes in the financial position of the organization. Such information is very important for various stakeholders in relation to making better business related decisions.

A financial statement is expected to be comparable, understandable, and remain relevant according to the day to day operations of the organization. The assets, profits, liabilities, loss and equity relate directly to the financial position and operations of an organization. The stakeholders are expected to comprehend to these financial statements as well as those who have a reasonable knowledge and understanding of economic and organization activities in addition to accounting and are prepared to diligently go through and use such information (Beaver, Correia, and McNichols, 2011).

A financial report or a financial statement of an organization refers to its formal record that indicates the financial position of that organization as well as all its activities and process that related to its financial activities. The financial statement should offer the relevant financial information of the organization in a way that is well structured and in a manner that can be easily understood by any stakeholder interested in the financial progress of the organization.

Such financial statements normally include organization financial information that is normally based on in the decision and discussion of the organization management as well as their analysis. There are several types of these financial statements and they include the balance sheet or the statement of the financial position, statement of comprehensive income or income statement, expenses, and revenue or profit and loss, the statement of net changes in equity, and cash flow statements (Beaver, Correia, and McNichols, 2011).

In the organization in question, the financial statements that are provided are the income statement and the balance sheet. The income statement is used to provide information on the earnings of the organization, the expenses that have been incurred by the organization in that financial year, and the ultimate difference that exists between the earnings of the organization and the expenses. There is two possible outcome, and they include the organization making a profit in the event that the income of the organization is more as compared to its expenses or the organization making a loss in the event that its expenses are more as compared to the earning received during that financial records.

The income statement offers information that relates to the operations of the organization. This normally includes sales as well as several expenses that the organization incurred during a specific financial period. A statement of financial position or a balance sheet, on the other hand, offers information on the liabilities and assets of the organization together with the equity of the owners or investors of the organization at a specified financial year.

A balance sheet as a financial statement summarizes the assets, equity, and liabilities of the organization at a given fiscal period and in most cases at the end of the financial period. The role of the Balance Sheet is to provide the interested stakeholders the position of the financial condition of the organization together with showing what the organization owns and what it owes. Such information helps the interested stakeholders to quickly have a glimpse of the financial capabilities and strengths as well as its losses and weakness of the organization.

Balance sheets together with income statements are considered as the most basic elements in providing financial information and reporting to potential lenders such as investors, banks, and vendors who have to consider how much credit the organization can be granted. The paper is going to examine how worth the organization is to source its services by looking at its strengths and weakness of the organization basing on the financial information of the organization on the basis of the balance sheet and income statement provided. This information will be used to offer recommendations as to whether the organization will be considered for sourcing exercise for Facilities Management Services.

Assignment Tasks

1. Evaluate the finances of this organization highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of their position.

The financial statements that have been provided for this assignment are a balance sheet and the income statement for the organization in the financial period between 2013 and 2014. The financial statements offer valuable information when it comes to analysis and assessing the financial position of the organization. From the financial statement provided, one can be in a position to access the strengths or the weakness of the position of the company.

By looking at the income statement of this organization, it is evidence that the organization incurred losses in its first fiscal tear and then went ahead to make profits in the following fiscal year. This can be based on to show that the organization performance is better and it is experiencing an increase in its sales volumes. Such an increase can be credited to some reasons which may include intensive campaigns when it comes to advertisements that has proved to be successful to the organization (Beaver, Correia, and McNichols, 2011).

The amount of the sales turnover of the organization was also observed to increase over the one-year fiscal period as compared to the amount of sales turnover in the year 2013 and that in the year 2014. The increase in the profits, as well as the sales revenue witnessed during this period by the organization, is an indication of how the organization is strong in its financial position in the market.

The financial statements also show that the operating expenses of the organization are so high that it takes the greatest percentage of the earnings of the organization. This can be interpreted to imply an internal weakness in relation to the position of the organization. Such a large cost is likely to hold the organization from maximizing on its true potentials and utilization of the available resources to make desired profits.

The operating expenses in the first financial year from the financial statement were more as compared to the gross profit made by the organization and hence this resulted in the organization making losses during this financial period. This is a sign of weakness to organization, and it puts the organization in a bad position now that the losses the organization incurred in this financial year had to be carried forward to the following fiscal year and claimed from the earned profits of the following fiscal period.

Taking into consideration the operational profits gained in the fiscal year 2014, the financial statements show that it is still high and this implies a significant reduction in the organization profits. This is an indication that the organization is prone to the liquidity issues at some point in its future fiscal periods following the low amounts of current assets that the organization has which can be easily converted to cash when it finds itself in such a situation (Bernstein and Wild, 2000).

The accounts receivable amount as it appears in the financial statement is large enough. However, this amount can minimize through reducing the period given to debtors. This is the debtor’s account in the financial statement that seems to be holding more than enough money of the organization. The accounts receivables should be included in the financial statement as income to the organization after the organization has received it from its debtors.

Reducing the time given to debtors is important to the organization now that the current position of the organization is not as strong as it should be hence an indication of a sign of weakness of the current position of the organization. Many debtors is also a sign that the organization is likely to experience liquidity issues over the coming fiscal years hence an indication of poor fiscal position of the organization.

The capital structure of the organization in question is made up of the retained earnings and share capital. The equity composition of the organization is more of earnings that it has retained from the income statements operations elements as compared to the share capital of investors. The financial statements show that the organization does not have borrowings or loans as well as long-term liabilities. The retained earnings are an indication of the organization making use of all its accrued income in expanding its business.

The financial statement also shows that the shareholders of the organization did not receive any kind of dividends for their investment into the organization. Lack of dividends for the shareholders is a sign of weakness by the organization now that it means that the organization lacks attraction to investment for potential business to invest in the organization now that any potential will shy off to invest in an organization where his or her investment does not earn any returns.

This can also be interpreted to mean that the organization has a strong financial position now that expenses have been reduced for the main purpose of growing the business and expanding the organization. It is, therefore, important for the organization to maximize its retained earnings now that they lack any floatation costs that have to be incurred in the process of raising it.

It has also been identified as the most convenient and easiest financing form. The financial statement also shows that the organization has many creditors that it owes money to. This can be interpreted as a sign of the organization experiencing liquidity issues, and this means that it is experiencing challenges in either paying the creditors’ or setting its accounts payable. The financial statements also show that the organization has large amounts of liabilities and this is assign to show that it is experiencing financial issues in its current financial-related operations (Bernstein and Wild, 2000).

(b) Provide a justified recommendation as to whether you would consider this organization for a sourcing exercise for Facilities Management Services emphasizing any limit that should be placed on the financial exposure (maximum contract value).

Facility management refers to a field of several disciplines that are devoted to the coordination of organization, space, people, and infrastructure. Facility management is in most cases associated with administration and convention centers and it represents various activities that exceed organization services commonly referred to as non-core functions within an organization. Facility management services are not similar now that they always tend to vary and this depends on with the type of organization.

Following the above analyses, I would consider a sourcing for this organization. There exist key elements of the facility management that the organization needs to take into consideration before it decides to source for the services. These key elements include; finance and business, communication, operation and maintenance, leadership and strategy, technology, quality, and environmental sustainability and stewardship.

Following the organization position, I recommend that this organization outsources for facility management services for it to be in a position to understand each aspect of the categories in which its resources is spent. This is a crucial process that is normally carried out by the sourcing team of the organization. It is also expected that the team needs to be well comprehended with every aspect as to why a specific product needs to be purchased by the organization and the effect the move will have on the to their entire processes of the organization.

The organization should also outsource the facility management service for it to understand well what it spent. The main challenge of the finance team is that it first has to get a comprehensive understanding of the organization spending habit. This kind of information is related to how much the organization spends in total and come up with a ratio of what the organization spends to any product or service it supply and categorizes such product as services to organization units. Such kind of analysis does not have to be a hundred percent accurate. In most cases, outsourcing offers bet results for the organization and improves its performance now that it is subjected to progressive innovation in addition to development, work under pressure to minimize its costs and value addition to the core operations of the business.

Facility management has also to be supported with training together with professional qualification that us normally coordinated by the facility management associations or institutes. The facility management is charged with the responsibility of the day to day running of the organization. This happens to be a policy issue, but following the immediacy of the needed response to the numerous activities involved, the facility manager will in most cases need daily report.

Some of the issues involved need more than just regular maintenance, for example, those that in any way can stop the organization productivity or those that have safety implications to the organization, and this can be taken care of through outsourcing facility management services (Fridson, Fridson, and Alvarez, 2011).

Outsourcing has also been observed to improve the efficiency delivery of organization services now that their contracts are normally based on performance. They need to prove their worth through performance for them to have their contracts extended. The organization also appears as to be having management issues now that the current management does not seem to minimize expenses or maximize its profits, which are the main agenda of any organization (Fridson, Fridson, and Alvarez, 2011).

Outsourcing in this situation, therefore, appears to be the best away through which the organization can use to salvage the situation it is in and help itself to avoid the negative effects that the ongoing concerns can have on the organization. The financial exposure to the process of outsourcing of such services should not exceed the current organization cost of having internal staff. This means that the, therefore, the organization has to take into consideration the best approach to minimizing its expenses while at the same time come up with ways of maximizing its profits. This is the key idea behind the FM services outsourcing.

This may also improve the organization efficiency when it comes to the delivery of services now that their contracts are based on performance. This means that a lot of effort has to be put while performing their respective duties and this in the long-run is likely to result in efficiency in the organization and thus improved performance that will be reflected on the financial position of the organization (Fridson, Fridson, and Alvarez, 2011).

To have a contract extended, an organization or entity has to prove its worth and show value for money. The organization needs to outsource for the facility management services for it to be better placed to comprehend its spending. The facility management has in initially have a comprehensive comprehension of the spending trend of the organization.

Recommendation

A capital deduction claim is another means that the organization can make use of in its efforts to reduce tax liability. Therefore, I recommend that the organization should make claims on capital deduction on all its property as well as investments. This follows the fact that capital deduction that includes wear and tear happen to be allowable deductions for the taxation purposes.

This is a way that the organization can utilize to reduce the taxable amount and consequently reduce its tax reliability, which it is expected to honor at the end of its accounting period. The organization should also cut down on its current cost of sale. The management can achieve this through seeking out for alternative suppliers who are better placed to supply the organization with quality services and goods but at a price that is cheaper and reduced. Such a move is likely to increase both the gross profit of the organization together with its net profits.

Conclusion

By looking at how worth the organization is to source its services through examining its strengths and weakness basing on the financial information of the organization in relation to the balance sheet and income statement provided. The information was used to offer recommendation as to whether the organization will be considered for sourcing exercise for Facilities Management Services. The organization has both strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations were provided in relation to the financial position of the business. Following the financial position of the organization, it was recommended that the organization should source its Facilities Management Services.

References

Beaver, W. H., Correia, M. M., and McNichols, M. (2011). Financial statement analysis and the prediction of financial distress. Boston: Now

Bernstein, L. A., and Wild, J. J. (2000) .Analysis of financial statements. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Fridson, M. S., Fridson, M. S., and Alvarez, F. (2011).Financial statement analysis: Apractitioner’s guide. Hoboken, N.J: Wiley

Corporate Award Programme

Candidate Assignment Guidance

Version 7.0 July 2016

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Contents

1. Overview …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3

2. Submission requirements – important ………………………………………………………………………………………….3

3. Planning and conducting your research ………………………………………………………………………………………..4

4. Structuring your assignment submission ………………………………………………………………………………………4

5. Assignment front sheet ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5

6. Contents Page ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5

7. Executive Summary ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5

8. Assignment – main body …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6

9. Conclusions and recommendations ……………………………………………………………………………………………..7

10. Referencing ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………7

11. Reference list …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………8

12. Bibliography …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..9

13. Appendices ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………9

14. Word Count ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10

15. Policies ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11

a. Plagiarism ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11

b. Reasonable adjustment and special consideration ……………………………………………………………………… 11

c. Extensions beyond submission deadlines ………………………………………………………………………………….. 12

d. Assessment reviews and appeals ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

16. Grading ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

17. Marking and results …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12

18. And finally ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13

Appendix 1: Assignment Assessment Criteria ……………………………………………………………………………………. 14

Appendix 2: Command Words …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15

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1. Overview

The assignment brief is set by CIPS and all assignments are validated to ensure a standard approach. The

purpose of each assignment is to enable you to demonstrate your ability to research, analyse and problem

solve in different situations. You will be expected to approach your assignment work from a procurement and

supply context, addressing the brief directly and undertaking the tasks required. The assignment will relate

directly to the specified module content and is marked using the assessment criteria provided as an appendix

to this guide.

Read carefully the assignment title and guidance for candidates. The assignment will identify which modules it

is designed to assess. Use the relevant content from the stated modules as the basis of your assignment. It

will help you structure your planning and research. Ensure you plan your assignment to meet all of its

requirements.

2. Submission requirements – important

2.1 Include the assignment front sheet

2.2 The maximum number of documents you can submit for an assessment is one

2.3 All of your work must be contained in one document

2.4 You must not submit appendices as separate documents

2.5 You must word process your assignment using MS word, or equivalent, and convert it in to a pdf file

format

a. The file name should only consist of your full 9-digit membership number and the assignment

number, e.g. “005429889 AS1 ”. Please note that this should reflect the assignment

number, not the module number.

b. You may wish to make use of Adobe Acrobat’s Reduce File Size… function

2.6 Every page should be numbered and contain your candidate number at the top of the document in

the header.

The average number of pages for a 3,000 word assignment is 27 (including appendices). The maximum

number of pages allowed for a 3,000 word assignment is 50 pages in total. You should not exceed this

allowance. In the case of the integrative assignment, the average number of pages for a 5,000 word

assignment is 45. The maximum number of pages allowed for a 5,000 word integrative assignment is 100

pages in total.

You must hand in your assignment no later than the submission deadline stated in your timetable. There are

penalties if your submission is handed in late without prior agreement from CIPS through the Reasonable

Adjustment, Special Consideration or Extension Policies (see section 15, page 8 and 9). Submissions that do

not meet the submission requirements (for example Word rather than , multiple files, candidates

name present) will not be accepted and if the revised version is not sent within the submission timeframe the

corrected version may be subject to penalty.

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3. Planning and conducting your research

It is important that you address the requirements of the assignment brief. Some students fail to do this and

overlook one or more requirements of the assignment brief. The assignment title will include command

words. These are words such as “analyse”, “describe” etc. and define what you are expected to do. A list of

common command words and their definitions is included as an appendix to this document to help you plan

the depth of detail and type of information to research and present within your assignment.

You should take care when reproducing company information not already in the public domain within your

assignment. It is your responsibility to ensure you comply with your own company expectations if the

information is considered confidential or sensitive.

CIPS is looking for evidence that a student understands a concept and can apply it appropriately within a given

contexts defined by the assignment brief. In order to address the assignment tasks, it is not necessary to

identify any real suppliers or products. Therefore, it is acceptable to refer to a supplier as ‘Supplier A’ for

example, rather than identify real suppliers. Products can be referred to as product ‘X’ or ‘Y’ for example,

rather than identify any sensitive procurements. It is best practice to explain, within your introduction, the

naming conventions you will adopt e.g. “for the purposes of confidentiality, suppliers or products will be

referred to as…”.

Research forms part of the assessment criteria, hence it is an essential element of your assignment

preparation. Do not fail to realise the importance of collecting information to support and underpin your

assignment work. It is vital that you demonstrate your ability to establish information needs, obtain relevant

information and use it sensibly, in order to arrive at appropriate conclusions, recommendations and/or

decisions. You should establish the nature of the information required, follow up possible sources and ensure

you allow time to obtain the information. You may be dependent on other colleagues or suppliers to obtain

relevant information – do not underestimate the time it may take you to gather it. In order to conduct your

research effectively, you will need to conduct wider reading associated with the topics covered in the module

content.

Useful sources of information include those freely available to CIPS members such as our Knowledge site and

the Supply Management site. Additionally, websites such as those of the National Audit Office and the

Financial Times are a great source of case studies and examples of successes and failures which can support

your assignment preparation.

Your reference list and bibliography will provide an indication of the level of research, information collection

and application within your assignment.

4. Structuring your assignment submission

Presentation: Your assignment submission should be word processed with minimum font size 12pt and 1.5 or

double line spacing. You should adopt an appropriate layout and structure for

your assignment submission.

The structure and presentation of your assignment is considered as part of the marking process so it is

important that you take the time to carefully plan your assignment and use a logical layout and structure. This

guidance document outlines a suggested structure for your assignment.

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For many of you this assignment will be dealing with issues that are of importance to your employer and they

will, in all likelihood, be interested in seeing a copy of your assignment. Spending some extra time making it as

professional as possible will pay dividends here.

Approach: The assignment title may include a number of requirements. Read it carefully and identify what

these are. Plan your assignment and research to ensure that you address all the requirements. As a guide,

you should aim to place approximately equal emphasis on each requirement within the layout of your

assignment submission. This means you will usually produce approximately the same volume of content for

each requirement within your assignment submission. Plan your research and the structure of your

assignment submission accordingly. However, during your planning or research, you may identify that it is not

appropriate to place equal emphasis on each requirement within the assignment title.

For example, factors beyond your control, such as the nature of your organisation or the external business

environment in which it operates, may mean that it is not appropriate to place equal emphasis on each

requirement of the assignment title. In such circumstances, acknowledge this within your assignment

submission to demonstrate to the assessor that you have considered all the requirements of the assignment

title. Explain to the assessor why you have adopted a particular approach to demonstrate your ability to

make judgements. Think carefully about the structure, style and content of your assignment; the key is to

ensure you justify any deviation from the assignment requirements in order to explain to the assessor why

you have adopted an unusual approach. Failure to do so could mean you fail to gain marks in the knowledge

and approach section of the assessment criteria.

Remember also that the marking team will not be familiar with your company, company-specific terminology

or acronyms. Take care to ensure you explain necessary background information, or the meaning of company-

specific terminology, in order to provide the marking team with an understanding of the nature of your

organisation and the business environment in which it operates.

5. Assignment front sheet

Please complete and attach the assignment front sheet to your submission. Your name should not appear

anywhere within your assignment.

6. Contents page

The contents page helps the reader to navigate around the document and highlights important sections and

sub-sections; this also helps you to ensure your work is structured and flows in a logical order.

7. Executive summary

The aim of an executive summary is to prepare the reader, in advance of reading a lengthy document, for

what to expect. It should briefly summarise the content and conclusions/recommendations. This is good

academic and business practice and is recommended for all assessments (assignments and project work). We

recommend you keep this to one page if possible.

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8. Assignment – main body

CIPS recommends a short introduction to the assignment to set the scene. You may wish to take the

opportunity to introduce your company or the business environment relevant to your assignment, define any

relevant terms, explain the scope of your assignment, the approach you have taken, any exclusions and

assumptions.

Assignments should have a good balance of relevant underpinning theory, tools or models and practical

application (use of examples from your organisation, or one with which you are familiar). You must select

appropriate models to demonstrate knowledge and application. It is suggested you consult and reflect upon

the programme content for the relevant module(s) in the first instance and conduct an audit of the theories,

tools and models etc., in order to identify those which may be appropriate for your assignment.

For any theories, tools or models that you include, your assignment should contain a brief description and

justification of its selection in relation to your analysis.

You should ensure you include discussion on how it was used and what information was generated from it –

interpret the findings of your analysis. Avoid citing models, tools etc., without applying them within your

analysis as this will gain no marks. You may wish to use tables or diagrams to demonstrate your application of

relevant tools or models.

When including information about the theories, tools and models etc. within your assignment, narrative

should be integrated in to the content of your assignment. Assignment submissions which simply skip from

one model or tool, for example, to the next, without linking them in some way or consolidating them in

conclusions, will be unlikely to demonstrate the extent of your comprehension of the module content and

your ability to apply it to practical business situations.

Providing a sound argument for selection and application of a particular theory, model, tool or technique –

highlighting why it is appropriate, its strengths and weaknesses/limitations (as well as your findings) – is likely

to be awarded higher marks.

The positioning of models/tools and techniques will depend on a number of factors, but ideally you should

aim for a good balance of discussion and visual impact. It is a matter of personal judgement and preference,

but, essentially they should be relevant and visually enhance the work, enabling the reader to grasp the flow

of your discussion. You should also consider:

 The strength and possible limitations of the model for the task

 The quality and depth of information contained within your assignment

 Appropriateness for the subject matter

 Whether large pieces of supporting evidence for an argument may be better placed in the Appendices

The application and insight section of the assessment criteria is the most heavily weighted. It is important to

demonstrate your ability to apply relevant tools, theories, models etc., according to the modules content and

the assignment title. The outcomes of your application will generate evidence which you must present within

your assignment submission.

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9. Conclusions and recommendations

Again, the application and insight section of the assessment criteria is the most heavily weighted. You must,

therefore, ensure you demonstrate your ability to interpret your evidence and findings by providing

recommendations, proposals for change and/or conclusions, as appropriate, which are consistent with the

evidence you have generated. This will exhibit the validity of your insight. Thorough application of tools of

analysis will help to provide strong findings which will form the foundation of your conclusions and

recommendations.

Your conclusions and recommendations must be consistent with your analysis and findings and should act as

a summary. It is important that any conclusions or recommendations are justified as part of your overall

assignment submission. When you have completed your assignment, take time to re-read it a day or so later

and check that your conclusions really are consistent with the evidence generated from your analysis.

10. Referencing

In order to avoid plagiarism, whenever you use someone’s words directly, or make reference to the ideas or

work of others, you must reference this appropriately using a recognised referencing system, such as the

Harvard system of referencing or as outlined in the CIPS Reference Guidance document. The following points

will help you cite sources of information appropriately within the body of your assignment.

 When a reference is made in your assignment to a particular document, the author (or editor, compiler or
translator) individual or organisation and year of publication are inserted in brackets:

o e.g. Agriculture still employs half a million people in rural Britain (Shucksmith, 2000).

 If the author’s name occurs naturally in the sentence, only the year of publication is given:
o e.g. … concept is discussed by Jones (1998)…

 When referring to more than one document by an author published in the same year, these are
distinguished by adding lower case letters (a, b, c) after the year:

o e.g. (Watson, 1999a)

 If there are two authors, the names of both should be given:
o e.g. (Lines and Walker, 1997)

 Where there are more than two authors, cite the first author, followed by ‘et al.’:
o e.g. (Morgan et al., 1998)

 Quotations: Direct quotations are used to show the work of another party word-for-word; the exact
words must be copied from the source document. When citing quotations, include the page number of
where the quotation can be found in the source document. Please note quotations used within your
assignment content are included within the total word count.

o Short quotations may be run into the text, using single quotation marks.
o e.g. While they recommend that teams ‘…be encouraged to improve collaboration within an

organisation autonomously’ (Driedonks, et al., 2010, p. 115), they …

Longer quotations should be separated from the rest of the text by means of a new and indented paragraph
and optional size reduction. These do not need quotation marks, however the author, date and page
reference must be included in brackets at the end of the indented paragraph of quoted text. You are advised
to use long quotations sparingly as they are included as part of the word count. Ask yourself whether they

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really add value to your assignment, or whether there is a better way of representing the information you
wish to present to the reader of your assignment.

Referencing electronic resources can be confusing, it is difficult to know which information to include or
where to find it. As a rule, provide as much information as possible concerning authorship, location and
availability. Electronic citations require much of the same information as print sources (author, year of
publication, title, publisher). However, some extra details are required:

 identify that you accessed the source in an electronic format

 provide an accurate access date for online sources (that is, identify when a source was viewed or
downloaded)

 provide the location of an online source (for example, a database or web address)
Unlike printed material, internet sources can easily be changed, or disappear altogether, so full and accurate
citation information is essential.

Example – referencing web documents
British Lawnmower Museum (no date) Lawnmowers of the Rich and Famous [online] Southport, British
Lawnmower Museum. Available: http://www.lawnmowerworld.co.uk/Rich.htm [Accessed10 March 2004]

Example – referencing electronic journals
Hart, K. (1998) The place of the 1898 Cambridge Anthropological Expedition to the Torres Straits (CAETS) in
the history of British social anthropology. Science as a culture. [Online] 11 (1). Available: http://human-
nature.com/science-as-culture/hart.html [Accessed 9 November 2003]

Example – referencing journal articles from a web-based full-text database
Mahoney, R. (2000) Leadership and learning organisations, The Learning Organization. [Online] 7 (5), 241-244.
Available: http://www.emerald-library.com/brev/11907ec1.htm [Accessed 23 October 2000]

The source materials you use should be included in a reference list at the end of your assignment. See the

following sections relating to your reference list and bibliography.

11. Reference list

A reference list is essential to ensure the works of others is acknowledged and to avoid the risk of plagiarism

issues. You must use a recognised referencing system, such as the Harvard system or as outlined in the CIPS

Reference Guidance document, as assessors will need to identify sources you have accessed during your

research and used within your assignment. See the section relating to referencing for information on how to

cite sources of information within the body of your assignment.

References are arranged alphabetically by author’s name (or title, if no author) which has been used in the

body of the text and should be presented in the following way:

 Book references – include where possible, the following information in the order listed here:

o Author(s)/Editor(s) – Surname first, followed by first name(s) or initials (be consistent). Include

all names if there are two or three authors; if more than three, use the first name and then et

al. For editors, compilers or translators (instead of author), give the abbreviation ed/eds,

comp/comps or trans following the name(s): e.g. Peckham, T. and Smith, G. (eds.)

o Year of publication – e.g. (1996)

http://www.lawnmowerworld.co.uk/Rich.htm

http://human-nature.com/science-as-culture/hart.html

http://human-nature.com/science-as-culture/hart.html

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o Title – capitalise the first letter of the first word and any proper nouns; use bold, italics or

underline (be consistent); Include any sub-title, separating it from the title by a colon

o Edition – only include if not the first edition

o Series – include if relevant.

Modern versions of MS Word have some helpful tools to assist with referencing and citations. These allow

you to build a list of sources which you can access to cite in the body of your assignment using the “insert

citation” tool under the references section of the toolbar. It allows you to insert a list of “works cited” which

will automatically include all sources which you have cited within your assignment.

12. Bibliography

When researching subject areas, you may read widely, but not all will be relevant to the assignment you are

working on. However, this work should not go unrecognised and more importantly, a bibliography records

earlier reading that may be useful later when researching for future assessments or projects. If you have

documented your reading, this can be located again with ease.

13. Appendices

Core material – which is defined as text that the assessor would need to read in order to understand and

appreciate your work fully – should NOT be placed in appendices. An appendix is not a “catch-all”, or a

substitute for effective writing and editing of your assignment to meet the word count. You do not have to

use appendices – indeed; it is considered best practice that assignments only include appendices in

exceptional circumstances. For example, information that is not essential to your assignment, but validates

the content of it, provides confirmatory evidence or provides information or material that the assessor would

not otherwise be able to access, should be placed in an appendix. Documents that are available in the public

domain should be referenced, in accordance with a recognised referencing system, rather than including

them as appendices.

Examples of things which could be useful as appendices to an assignment include:

• Supporting evidence – feedback, testimonials, stakeholder interview outcomes etc.

• Technical information presented in tables and graphs – organisational charts, statistics etc.

• Supplementary data which adds useful information or insight, but is not essential to the

understanding of the personal statement – including organisation-specific material (ensure

appropriate permissions have been sought for use outside your organisation).

Appendices should be presented in the order they are mentioned in your assignment, and it is essential to

refer to each appendix within the text of your assignment. You should NOT include something as an appendix

if it is not discussed within the assignment, nor should you include any material which is readily available in

the public domain – it should be referenced in the text of the assignment using a recognised system of

referencing.

Appendices do not form part of the word count for your assignment.

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14. Word Count

The expected word count for your assignment will be highlighted on your assignment task. Your assignment

can be up to 10% below the stated word count, or up to 10% higher than the stated word count. If your

assignment exceeds (or falls short of) the stated word count by more than 10%, you may fail to gain marks

under the structure and presentation section of the assessment criteria.

The following are excluded from the word count:

 Front page

 Contents Page

 Executive Summary

 Models, tables, diagrams, graphs etc.

 Reference list

 Bibliography and appendices

You must state your assignment word count on the assignment front sheet.

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15. Policies

a. Plagiarism

Plagiarism is submitting someone else’s work as your own when you are not the author. The attempt to pass-

off the ideas, research, theories, or words of others as one’s own is considered to be a serious academic

offence. Most students know when they are intentionally plagiarising, for example, copying an entire essay

out of a book or buying a paper off the Internet. However, many students are tripped up by unintentional

plagiarism – not giving proper credit for others’ quotes, facts, ideas, or data. A good rule-of-thumb for

students is to always give credit for any ideas that are not their own by citing their sources.

The most common forms of plagiarism are:

 Copying and pasting material from a website

 Copying the work of another student (past or present)

 Copying course material or lecture notes

 Copying material out of a textbook, journal or other publication

You must take care when writing your assignment that the work you submit is your own. You are permitted

to reproduce short extracts, diagrams, tables and illustrations from other publications. But, these must be

clearly referenced and the source acknowledged. CIPS treats plagiarism very seriously and if your work is

found to contain unacknowledged third party content you may fail your assignment.

In order to avoid plagiarism, whenever you use someone’s words directly, or make reference to the ideas or
work of others, you must reference this appropriately using a recognised referencing system, such as the

Harvard system of referencing or CIPS Referencing Guidance. Failure to reference the work of others, whether

intentional or accidental is considered plagiarism, which constitutes a form of cheating (malpractice or

maladministration) and is not tolerated by CIPS. The Malpractice and Maladministration Policy includes details

of the consequences for students if they are found to have plagiarised.

b. Reasonable adjustment and special consideration

CIPS has a responsibility to ensure that all candidates have equal opportunities to reach their full potential. In

some instances, candidates may require adjustments to the assessment process to give them an equal

opportunity, and CIPS has a responsibility to ensure that appropriate adjustments are made for each

candidate.

Applications for a Reasonable Adjustment should be made in advance of the assessment. Candidates may

apply for Special Consideration in exceptional circumstances that could not possibly be predicted. This also

applies to candidates wishing to report any incident which may affect their assessment performance.

If you require a Reasonable Adjustment or Special Consideration, you should contact your CIPS programme

lead who will be able to assist you. Further information about Reasonable Adjustments and Special

Consideration can be obtained through the reasonable adjustment and special consideration policy which is

available on the Learning Management System (LMS) under the FAQ section.

http://www.cips.org/Documents/Policies%20and%20Procedures/A8.1_Malpractice_and_Maladministration_Policy_and_Procedure_Nov14

http://www.cips.org/Documents/Qualifications/Online%20assessment/G6.2_and_G7.3_Reasonable_Adjustments_and_Special_Consideration_Policy_and_Procedure_fv_03.11.14

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c. Extensions beyond submission deadlines

Extensions cannot be granted by tutors. Applications by students for an extension must be made in writing

and submitted to their Programme Lead. These will then be considered by CIPS. The application for an

extension should be completed 7 days before the submission deadline date.

All reasons for extensions require independent corroboration, usually from your employer or, in the case of

medical problems, doctor. There are some circumstances which are regarded as acceptable reasons for

granting an extension and some which are not. Examples are:

Acceptable reasons

 Holidays booked prior to start of programme

 Significant medical conditions/concerns

 Compassionate (e.g. family bereavement)

 Verified work-related travel

Unacceptable reasons:

 Workload

 Computer problems

 Lost assignments

 Desired books not in library

 Unverifiable travel difficulties

 Unawareness of the submission deadline

d. Assessment reviews and appeals

Should you wish to appeal against your result you should apply to CIPS following the assessment review and

appeals procedure within two weeks of the result release date. The assessment appeals policy can be found

on the Learning Management System (LMS) under the FAQ section. If you wish to request a review of your

assessment result, you should contact your CIPS Programme Lead who will be able to assist you.

16. Grading

The assessment criteria (see Appendix 1) breaks down each section of the assessment criteria and indicates

what is expected for each grade. The marks you are awarded for each section of the assessment criteria will

be combined in order to arrive at a total percentage result. The grade you receive for your assignment is

based upon this result as follows:

Fail less than 50% Merit 60-74%

Pass 50-59% Distinction 75% or more

17. Marking and results

Following submission of your assignment, it will be marked by a member of the CIPS assessment team,

according to the assessment criteria (see Appendix 1). CIPS employs rigorous quality assurance processes

which ensure a standard approach to assessment is adopted. The assessment outcomes and processes are

evaluated by the CIPS Assessment Quality Board.

http://www.cips.org/Documents/Policies%20and%20Procedures/I1.1_I1.3_Assessment_Review_and_Appeals_Policy_and_Procedure

http://www.cips.org/Documents/Policies%20and%20Procedures/I1.1_I1.3_Assessment_Review_and_Appeals_Policy_and_Procedure

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When your result is released it can be accessed via the My CIPS section of the CIPS website. Your CIPS

Programme Lead will also provide you with feedback following the release of your result. The assessment

criterion (see Appendix 1) includes the following sections which are weighted in order to help you understand

their relative importance:

 Structure and presentation (20%)

 Research (20%)

 Knowledge and approach (20%)

 Application and insight (40%).

18. And finally

This document is by no means exhaustive, but provides some guidance on how you might approach the

development of your assignment submission. It is a guide on what is generally good practice in assignment

preparation, which enables you to understand the implications of what you are doing and gives you the best

opportunity to succeed in what you do.

Good luck with your assignment preparation.

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Appendix 1: Assignment Assessment Criteria

Pass with Distinction:
75% +

Pass with Merit:
60% – 74%

Pass:
50% – 59%

Failure:
Less than 50%

Structure
and
Presentation
20%

Excellent presentation
standards incorporating
effective executive
summary, structure and
content. Supports work
with references and
bibliography appropriate
to the assessment. Work
is communicated
innovatively to a very
high and professional
standard. Layout of work
includes innovative use of
graphics, tables, data,
references, headings,
numbered paragraphs
and appendices.
Composition of answers
in keeping with any
desired word count.

Effective presentation
standards incorporating
executive summary,
structure and content;
although refinement of
these would achieve
better marks. Supports
work with references and
bibliography appropriate
to the assessment. Work
is communicated
effective to a high
standard. Layout of work
includes effective use of
graphics, tables, data,
references, headings,
numbered paragraphs
and appendices.
Composition of answers
in keeping with any
desired word count.

Presentation makes use
of an executive summary,
structure and content.
Supports work with
references and
bibliography appropriate
to the assessment. Work
is communicated to a
satisfactory standard.
Limited use is made of
graphics, tables, data,
references, headings,
numbered paragraphs
and appendices.
Composition of answers
in keeping with any
desired word count.

Disappointing
presentation standards
demonstrating the need
to improve its executive
summary, structure and
content. Limited use of
references and
bibliography. Work is
communicated
ineffectively. Layout of
work makes limited use
of graphics, tables, data,
references, headings,
numbered paragraphs
and appendices.
Composition of answers
may not be in keeping
with any desired word
count.

Research
20%

Work demonstrates
excellent collation of
appropriate primary,
secondary, quantitative
and/or qualitative
research. Evidence of
analysis of research with
a reasoned critique
provided. Work refers to
purposeful and relevant
sources of research.
Extensive references and
bibliography.

Work demonstrates
collation of appropriate
primary, secondary,
quantitative or
qualitative research.
Evidence of the analysis
of research is provided.
Work refers to
appropriate sources of
research. A range of
references and
bibliography.

Work demonstrates
limited collation of
primary, secondary,
quantitative or
qualitative research.
There is scope to create
an analysis or refinement
of the research
presented. Work refers
to sources of research. A
reasonable number of
references and
bibliography.

Work demonstrates a
lack of primary,
secondary, quantitative
or qualitative research
and there are evident
gaps in the work that the
candidate has
undertaken. Small
number of references
and bibliography.

Knowledge
and
Approach
20%

Work demonstrates a full
understanding of
relevant theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus
that are appropriately
selected to formulate
answers. Applies a well
thought-out
methodology to develop
answers.

Work demonstrates an
effective understanding
of relevant theory,
models, techniques,
processes, outcomes or
other aspects of the
syllabus that are
appropriately selected to
formulate answers.

Work demonstrates a
satisfactory
understanding of
relevant theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus
that are appropriately
selected to formulate
answers.

Work demonstrates a
limited or sporadic
understanding of
relevant theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus
selected to formulate
answers.

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Pass with Distinction:
75% +
Pass with Merit:
60% – 74%
Pass:
50% – 59%
Failure:
Less than 50%

Application
and Insight
40%

Work demonstrates the
fitting application of
theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus.
Candidate creates
proposals for change that
can achieve business
improvements whilst
recognising boundaries
that can affect their
implementation. The
work is supported by an
innovative or appropriate
business case or
implementation plan
when relevant.

Work demonstrates an
effective application of
theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus.
Candidate creates
proposals for change that
can achieve business
improvements. The work
is supported by an
effective business case or
implementation plan
when relevant.

Work demonstrates the
application of some
limited theory, models,
techniques, processes,
outcomes or other
aspects of the syllabus.
Candidate creates limited
proposals for change that
can achieve business
improvements. A limited
business case or
implementation plan is
presented when relevant.

Work demonstrates
limited or sporadic
application of theory,
models, techniques,
processes, outcomes or
other aspects of the
syllabus. Candidate’s
proposals for change lack
justification. The work
lacks an effective
business case or
implementation plan
when relevant.

Appendix 2: Command Words

Command

Word

Definition

Analyse Examine a topic together with thoughts and judgments about it, by dividing the topic into its

separate parts and looking at each part in detail

Appraise Evaluate, judge or assess something

Argue Provide reasons for or against something, clearly and in proper order, using or citing evidence

so that a case can be proved. Also compare with Discuss

Assess Evaluate or judge the importance of something, referring to the special knowledge of experts

where possible. This may involve from

other texts

Comment on Write notes explaining your own criticism and observations of something

Compare Examine one thing in relation to another thing, so that points of similarity or difference

become evident

Consider Take something in to account, or make allowance for something. Think carefully about

something or reflect upon it

Contrast Emphasise the differences between two opposite or dissimilar things

Criticise Give your judgements about the good or bad qualities of theories or opinions, supporting

your decision with evidence

Define Explain the exact meaning of a word or phrase

Describe Give a full account or a detailed representation of something

Discuss Consider something by writing about it from different points of view.

Evaluate Calculate or judge the value of something; include your personal opinion in your evaluation

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Command
Word
Definition

together with appropriate reasons for your opinion

Explain Give reasons for, or account for something, so that it is clear or easy to understand

Identify Identify to state or briefly mention items of information

Illustrate Clarify or explain something by using examples or diagrams

Interpret Use your own ideas to explain the significance of something

Justify Show good reasons for decisions, recommendations or conclusions, perhaps by referring to

other texts

List Mention items separately in number order or by using bullet points

Outline Give the main features, facts or the general idea of something, omitting minor details

Propose Put forward (for example a point of view, idea, argument, suggestion) for consideration or

action

Reconcile Show how two apparently conflicting things can appear similar or compatible

Relate Establish a connection or association between things to show how they affect each other or

how they are alike

Review Examine and assess a subject critically

Show Explain thoroughly or prove something, so that the truth can be established

State Put something into words clearly and briefly

Suggest This means that there may be more than one answer. You must give the most appropriate

answer, or answers. It is good practice to state why it is the most appropriate answer

Summarise Give a brief, concise account of the main points of something, leaving out details and

examples

Classification: Internal Use







This Assessment	Distinction	Merit	Pass	Fail	N/A
Structure and Presentation 20%				
• Creation of a logical flow of content • Incorporation of numbered contents page, executive summary, sections that cover conclusions and recommendations when relevant, references and bibliography • Ease of understanding the content included • Layout of text, inclusion of graphics, tables, data, references, headings, numbered paragraphs • Use of appropriate appendices • Composition of answers in keeping with any desired word count, timescales or other limitation
Research 20%
• Collation of primary and/or secondary research • Use made of quantitative and/or qualitative data • Analysis of the research conducted • Reasoned critique of research provided • Acknowledged information sources
Knowledge and Approach 20%
• Demonstration of acquired understanding of theory, models, techniques, processes, outcomes or other aspects of the syllabus • Appropriate selection of content to formulate answers • Methodology pursued to develop answers
Application and Insight 40%
• Application of theory, models, techniques, processes, outcomes or other aspects of the syllabus • Creation of proposals for change that can achieve business improvement • Recognition of boundaries that can affect proposals made • Production of a business case or implementation plan when relevant

Strengths and weaknesses of the Assessment:

It was good to see the inclusion of your contents page, but you should take care to complete this by including the page numbering. This was followed by your executive summary and whilst this included interesting discussion, you should note that a better summary would have been provided if you had underlined the main strengths and weaknesses with the potential supplier’s financial standing. This should comment on the main strengths and weaknesses with the potential supplier’s financial standing. You were also required to provide a recommendation on any limit to the financial exposure and should note that a limit of exposure to 25% – 30% of their turnover would be appropriate in this case.

You then produced an introduction section which was really an extension of the executive summary but did provide some general background into financial analysis which was useful. You then produced a section discussing the financial position of the company without including any evidence of financial analysis having been undertaken. You produced a discussion which was very generic in places that did not refer to ratios as required by the assignment task. You did however produce a recommendation on as to if the company should be selected but again you did not back this up with any specific financial information and analysis.

To achieve higher marks, you can carry out research into the facilities management sector and benchmark the ratios that should be calculated against any of the suppliers that may be used by SABIC or industry leading suppliers that operate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It would also be beneficial if you provide the Altman or Springate scoring calculations that were featured in the course content to assess potential bankruptcy.

A key part of the programme is the demonstration of the application of the tools and techniques taught on the programme by the candidate in the assignment and this was not evident in this report.

You did use several external sources but these appeared to replace rather than support your discussion in large parts of this report. You do produce a conclusions section but could also include some recommendations as well at the end of the report.

Areas for Improvement:

Better marks could have been achieved if you had expanded your discussion to include some of the ratios taught on the programme and then discussed the findings of this analysis as well as considering the implications. You could also have included an analysis of another FM organisation for comparison purposes. As well as considering the limitation of financial analysis as well. You should also have provided an executive summary in the format discussed above. A recommendations section at the end of the report would also enhance the structure. In terms of external sources you should use them to support your discussion and not replace it.

Developing Contracts V2, March 2015 © CIPS 2014, Page 1 of 2

Practitioner Corporate Award
Assessment 3
Module 4: Sourcing Essentials

Question 1: 100% of the total marks

Using the following financial information:

(a) Evaluate the finances of this organisation highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of their position.
(b) Provide a justified recommendation as to whether you would consider this organisation for a sourcing

exercise for Facilities Management Services emphasising any limit that should be placed on the
financial exposure (maximum contract value).

Financial Profit and Loss Statement

12 month period ended 31 March

2014 £ or $ (delete) ‘000
12 month period ended 31 March
2013 £ or $ (delete) ‘000

Turnover 161,438 138,276
Cost of sales (124,677) (112,654)
Gross Profit 36,761 25,622
Other operating expenses (32,561) (26,984)
Operating profit 4,200 (1,362)
Interest receivable 17 18
Profit/ (loss) before taxation 4,217 (1,344)
Tax on profit/ (loss) on ordinary activities (1,545) (8)
Profit/ (loss) for the financial year 2,672 (1,352)

Balance Sheet at 31 March 2014 (continued overleaf)

Notes 12 month period ended 31

March 2014 £ or $ (delete)
‘000

12 month period ended 31
March 2013 £ or $ (delete)
‘000

Fixed Assets
Intangible assets 1,202 1,352
Tangible Assets 1 1,726 1,786
2,928 3,138
Current Assets
Stocks 2 726 1,446
Debtors 35,975 30,457
Cash 12,253 5,483
Total Assets 51,882, 40,524
Creditors, amounts falling within one year (43,524) (33,842)
Creditors, amounts falling due after more than
one year

3 (73) (111)

Provisions for liabilities 4 (4,079) (2,340)
Net assets 4,206 4,231

Sourcing Essentials V3, Mar 2015 © CIPS 2014, Page 2 of 2

Balance Sheet at 31 March 2014 (continued)

Capital and Reserves
Share capital 1,135 1,135
Profit and loss account 3,071 3,096
Total shareholders’ funds 4,206 4,231

Notes to the Accounts
(1) Tangible fixed assets consists of plant and machinery, computer equipment and other equipment
(2) Stocks consists of 31 Mar 2013 31 Mar 2012
Raw materials and consumables 576 724
Finished goods 150 722
726 1,446
(3) Creditors due after more than one year consists of hire purchase agreements for equipments
(4) Provisions for liabilities consists of tax liabilities, pension liabilities and the liability for the lease of
properties

Guidance
The answer to this task should consist of approximately 3,000 words and should be supported by a title, your
candidate number, contents page, executive summary, references and a bibliography. Any source materials
such as web sites, reports, articles, market data, journals or texts should be referred to in your work.

Syllabus Coverage
The following content from the Practitioner syllabus can be used to answer this assessment:

• The use of pre-qualification criteria or processes for supplier appraisal in the sourcing process
• Sources of information on suppliers such as financial reports, credit rating agencies or other

appropriate publications and sources
• The assessment of financial statements to evaluate the financial, commercial and technical

capabilities of potential suppliers in the sourcing process
• The use of ratio analysis to evaluate potential suppliers

This assessment helps you achieve the following capabilities:

• Evaluate the use and choice of pre-qualification criteria or processes for supplier appraisal in the
sourcing process taking into account stakeholder requirements

• Research information on suppliers using appropriate sources of information to select appropriate
suppliers

• Evaluate the financial, commercial and technical capabilities of potential suppliers and make
recommendations on their selection

• Analyse key ratios that indicate profitability, liquidity, gearing and investment in order to evaluate the
suitability of potential suppliers