Consumers Perception Towards Online Shopping In Singapore Marketing Essay

Consumers Perception Towards Online Shopping In Singapore Marketing Essay During the few past years, the Internet has grown to new levels not even envisioned. The Internet changes the way people live, work and purchase. Demangeot Broderick (2007) state that Internet provides great advantages for the consumers, such as variety of products, services and prices from different suppliers Using Internet facilities, commercial organisations can develop new markets; and improve the competitiveness of the company (Eastlick et al., 2006). However, the Internet may also create threats to some organizations. The number of Internet users is increasing year by year. Figure 1 shows the growth of Internet users globally. The fast growth of e-shopping and the increasing number of e-retailers has created an extremely competitive market place(George, 2004). Competing issues create a need for managers to understand factors which influence people using Internet as a new purchasing media (Fraser et al., 2005). It is becomes essential for the companies to understand benefits and risks of online shopping in order to underline the benefits and minimize risks. Figure 1 Growth of Internet Users in the World Source: http://www.internetworldstats.com/emarketing.htm 1.2. Background of the Country Singapore is an industrial country, which has a highly developed market- based economy. Total Singapore population is 4,987,600 (Singstat, June 2009) from which 72.4 per cent has an access to Internet at home (Singapore Internet Statistics, 2010). Figure 2 illustrates the Internet users growth in Singapore, which is 180.8per cent for the nine years period from 2000. Figure 2 Internet Usage http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats3.htm#asia Based on research, conducted by IPSOS in 2007 (Figure 3), more than 60% of online users in Singapore use online shopping, which gives high potential for online trade market. Figure 3 Online shopping statistics Source: http://www.insightbureau.com/insight_reports/mc_insights/2008_Q3_OnlineShopAP.pdf 1.3 Objectives, research questions and research hypotheses This study is intended to understand the buying process and behaviour of online consumers. The basic objectives of the study are: To determine consumer behaviour in online environment To identify the main influencers in online buying process To identify peoples attitude towards benefits and risks of online shopping Based on objectives identified, the following questions are raised: What are the main factors that influence consumer purchasing decision online? Is there any differences between online and offline consumer? What consumer segments are more likely to shop online? Is there any connection between identified factors and consumer segment groups? Based on objectives and questions above, conceptualizing framework for this research has been developed. The important variables are clearly showed through logical reasoning in the framework. Based on this framework, the null and alternative hypotheses are developed as the followings: There is a difference as well as no difference in perception on benefits of Internet purchasing between online and offline consumers There is a difference as well as no difference in perceived risks towards Internet purchasing between online and offline consumers 1.4. Scope With the fast growth of Internet commerce it becomes very important for companies to study consumer behaviour (Jobber, 2001). If the influencing factors in the online buying and selling process can be identified, than it can be meaningful for the online companies to give much emphasis on these factors. The majority of companies want to increase the overall volume of the business because this can lead to significant reductions in costs and competitive advantages (Kotler, 2003). This research will pay attention to consumer behaviour in the online environment, providing theoretical information about online purchasing behaviour of the consumers. Additionally, the present study is an attempt to get insight into peoples perceptions towards online shopping in Singapore. This study will specify on the perception of Internet users towards benefits and risks associated with online shopping and how company can avoid customers concerns about online shopping. Chapter Two: Literature review 2.1 Introduction Currently, e-commerce is getting huge attention from a range of organisation and customers due to the fact of fast Internet development (Lee Lin, 2005). Online shopping, as a part of E-commerce, is becoming a tendency in Singapore (Rotem-Mindali et al., 2006). Online shopping has both advantages and disadvantages. Purchasing behaviour is determined by consumers view of benefits and risks of online shopping. This literature review intends to review of all the relevant factors. Firstly, the definition of e-commerce and its growth will be defined. Secondly, theories regarding consumer perception and behaviour will be reviewed. Finally, the main benefits and risks will be summarized. 2.2. Definition of E-commerce There are different definitions of what is e-commerce. E-commerce is a very broad term used to describe process where electronic connections make resources exchange be possible (Vrechopoulos et al., 2001). In context of the Internet, E-commerce is used as a general term. The definitions of e-commerce are focused on buying and selling using the Internet. According to Mark van Ketel and Tim D. Nelson (2009) electronic commerce (e-commerce), a subset of e-business, includes selling goods and services, as well as purchasing and exchanging over the Internet. Torkzadeh and Dhillion (2002) describe e-commerce as a purchase and sale over the Internet. This includes the process of finding a product, ordering and receiving as well as costs and benefits of a product or service. Generally, E-commerce can be broken into two main categories: Business to business (B2B) is where business makes online transactions with other businesses (Turban et al., 2003) Business to consumer (B2C) is where online transactions are made between a business and an individual consumer (Wareham, 2000). 2.2.1 The importance of E-commerce According to Carla et al. (2006) Internet is a powerful instrument to buy, sell and distribute goods and services worldwide in a fast growing supply chain. Internet provides potential market that has no or little restrictions, such as geography or time (Blackwell, 2000). E-commerce provides enormous opportunities for growth and development. Through the Internet people can communicate with each other over vast distances. It allows commercially moving business and people to a market in which everything that is for sale is advertised and everything that is wanted for purchase is requested somewhere (Kanttila, 2005). Over the years E-commerce changing the way business used to work. According to Wareham, E (2000) Expedia sells more than $ 14 million worth of hotels and airline reservations a day from its web-site Federal Express in Singapore began to save $10,000 a day by creating customer service department online (Kotler, 2003). The Internet provides businesses with the opportunity to sell their products to millions of people, 24 hours a day (Bellman, 2006). Buyers and sellers can thus contact each other with no or little cost. The development of e-commerce is often claimed to be reshaping almost all industries (Pawlyna, 1999). It influences the operation of organisations and peoples activities greatly and brings fundamental changes to the way that business is conducted. E-commerce can enhance organisations performance by tangible and significant operational efficiency (Mutz, 2005). 2.2.2 The growth of E-commerce and online shopping The B2C and Internet usage rates are making stable progress and rising constantly. Electronic retailing, the B2C segment of e-commerce, is set to grow exponentially in the next few years (Siyal et al., 2006). Total online retail revenue is increasing year after year and expecting to increase in the nearest future (Shu et al., 2006). The increase of B2C e-commerce cannot help but to impact peoples attitude to buy goods. Currently, one in ten Singapore adults can be categorized as frequent online purchasers (Shun, 2006). Presently around 72.4 per cent of Singapore households are web-connected (Singapore Internet Statistics 2010), also this position is expected to grow over the next decades (Singstat, 2009) In the early stage of growth, e-retailing, the B2C segment of e-commerce is set to grow exponentially in the next few years (Tan, 2007). However, online shopping still remains as yet a minority pursuit with purchases concentrated in a comparatively narrow range of categories such as clothing and software, music and travelling (Shun, 2006). 2.3. Segmentation of Online consumers Vrechopoulos et al. (2001) segmented e-shoppers based on demographic, behavioural and attitudinal characteristics. Figure 4 illustrates classification of different segments of online shopping. Brown et al. (2003) classify e-shoppers according to purchasing motivations for shopping, which illustrated in Figure 5. Figure 4 Vrechopoulos, Siomkos and Doudikiss Segmentation of e-shoppers Characteristic On-off shoppers Online shoppers Interested in online shopping Social and demographic variables Gender Mainly men Men and women Age 25-44 18-44 Education University and postgraduate studies University studies Level of income Above average Average or above Material status Single Married Job Scientists, professionals, working in the private sector Scientist, public and private sector employees Attitudinal variables Home shopping motivations Time saving, opening hours Time saving, opening hours, exclusivity Online shopping motivations Fast delivery, low prices, range of products and opening times Home delivery, low prices, range of products and opening times Preferred payment method Cash on delivery, credit cards Cash on delivery Willingness to pay more than through traditional channels No No Willingness to pay delivery costs Yes Yes Source: Adopted by an author from Vrechopoulos, A., Siomkos, G. Doudikis, G. (2001) Figure 5 Segmentation of online consumers according to purchase motivations Type of shopper Purchase motivations Personalised shopper Personal relationship with the seller. Service adapts to shoppers needs Recreational shopper Enjoys the act of shopping Economic shopper Achieve the nest quality-price relationship for the purchase Involved shopper Enjoys shopping and values personal relations Convenience shopper Values time and effort. Enjoy reduced prices Local shopper Loyal to a brand or shop in their local area Apathetic shopper Rejects the act of shopping. Values the convenience of Internet Source: adopted by an author from Brown, M., Pope, N., Voges, K., (2003) 2.4 Consumers behaviour theories 2.4.1 Consumers perception and consumer behaviour Pawlyna (1999) identified perception as an initiator of behaviour. Additionally, perception can be considered as a process of information extraction. Even in the same reality, different people tend to perceive differently. Its vital to understand, that peoples perceptions are more important than the reality in marketing (Kotler, 2000). The factors, which influence consumers purchasing behaviour online can be identified by understanding customer behaviour. In most studies perception identified as input, while behaviour as output, and treated as two separate phenomena. Rotem-Mindali (2006) suggested that perception and behaviour are two sides of the same phenomenon and are closely related to each other. Current study considered perception and behaviour as one integral part in order to understand customer perception and reasons which affect it. 2.4.2 Consumer decision process There are several models (see Appendix 1), which describes customer purchasing behaviour, though they all have similar attributes that should be considered as fundamental stages upon which the consumers behaviour is developed. Figure 6illustratesmain steps involved in consumer decision process. Figure 6 Consumer decision process model Source: Adopted by an author fromhttp://tutor2u.net/business/marketing/buying_decision_process.asp Predispositions (Before Purchase): This stage includes past experiences, customer own personality and self-concept, attitudes and opinions in general, as well as on specific products. Product Need: Buyuko et al. (2004) stated that buyer recognises a need which can be satisfied by a product or service, as a result of either cognitive activity or some environmental stimulus. It can be simplified that the need is often caused by internal or external stimuli. Information Search: The search may arise on an internal and external basis (Goh, 1999). According to Donald (1974) this stage includes all searches of the internal and external environments for the alternative solutions as well as for information which can help in evaluating of those alternatives. The search for the information usually includes previous experiences and should be relevant to the present purchase situation. Evaluation of Alternatives: This stage involves comparison of alternatives from physical and cognitive activities. Consumers compare various brands by taking in consideration several attributes (Kotler, 2000). Attributes used for the evaluation of alternatives by consumers are also known as choice criteria. Figure 7shows a summary of these choice criteria. Additionally, differentiation and number of alternatives, time pressure as well as level of involvement will reflect the extent of problem solving. As shown in Figure 8the extent to which customer involved in decision making process influence each stage of customer decision making process. Figure7Choice criteria used for the evaluation of alternatives by consumers Source: Adopted by an author from Bellman, S., Johnson, E. J., Lohse, G. L., Mandel, N. (2006).   Figure 8 Purchase Involvement and Stages of consumer decision making process Source: http://www.slideshare.net/roymogg/marketing-focus-on-the-customer-presentation Purchase Activity: This stage consist of customer involvement in making an actual financial decision as well as direct physical activities involved in decision making process about making purchase or not. Also this stage includes the actual transaction. However, customer decision can be postponed, modified, or avoided due to influence of perceived risk involved in purchase decision (Kotler,2000). Therefore, it is essential for marketers to recognize and understand factors that might provoke perceived risk and find out solutions to minimize that (Bellman et al., 2006). Post Purchase Behaviour: According to Kotler (2000) the current stage primarily concerned with product or service purchased by the customer. This level requires customers experience of satisfaction or dissatisfaction about purchased product or service, which further will influence subsequent behaviour of consumer. According to Fox all et al (1998) satisfaction or dissatisfaction created by product or service will make major impact on future purchase decisions. Predispositions (After Purchase and Use): After the process of purchasing the buyer (or non- buyer) should be left with cognitive content (Gunasekaran et al., 2004), which can be differ from that which present at the early stages. Consumers attitude, information and experience may be changed due to factors of time and events (Hawkins, 1989). All of the above can influence the future purchase decision of the same type. 2.4.3. Consumer behaviour in Online Environment When consumers shop online, they perform a similar sequence of tasks to offline shoppers (Mowen et al., 2003). Besides, online environment provides more information regarding each alternatives, also online environment is more flexible and time saving. Internet has significant impact on each stage of traditional decision making process. Final customer decision depends on several factors, which are illustrated in Figure 9. Figure 9 Main factors that influence customer purchasing decision Source: Adopted by an author from Buyuko Zumi; Kan, Gulcin (2004) Figure 9 presented factors, which lead to the decision process, which is described below. Problem recognition: Feeling the need or recognize the problem is the starting point. The Internet can generate the need or problem by itself and also can encourage customers to start the information search process (Breitenbach and van Doren, 1998). Information Search: Internet is one of the powerful sources of information, it has great advantages to store and process the information (Buyuko Zumi, 2004), and due to the above Internet has a deep impact on the Information Search stage. According to Wareham (2000) Internet provides wide access to information base for the consumers. Comparing to the traditional environment Web is less costly and require less time for information search (Turban  et al., 2002). One of the important differences between online and offline environment is the costs for the characteristics and attributes for which information can be obtained, are usually lower in online atmosphere (Kanttila, 2005). Still, the Internet has far less impact for the products that are perceived as low risk and that are bought frequently (Mutz, 2005). Additionally, the Internet is much less effective for value expressive products than for functional products, which attributes can be easily compared online (Rayport et al., 2003). Product Evaluation: This stage requires customers to make final value judgment through evaluating different information. The main benefit of online shops is their ability to store large amount of content at a relatively low cost (Rotem-Mindali et al., 2006). Thus, this can be turned to advantage when customers evaluating the product. On another hand, Internet provides lack of tangibility, which leads to difficulties in evaluating products. Purchase Activity: Current stage involves issues regarding transactions, which include the following steps: Agree contractually on purchase Pay for the purchase Wait for the delivery Receive physical delivery This stage can be influenced by different consumer-related factors, such as price, trustworthiness, availability or diversity of choices. According to Jobber (2001) this stage is also influenced by customer involvement, which is shown in Figure 6. Thus, customer will carry out very extensive evaluation when the purchase is very involving. On the contrary, purchases with low involvement will lead to simple evaluation and quick decision making (Schiffman, 2004). Post Purchase Activities: This stage is concerned with the satisfaction or dissatisfaction after purchase is made (Solomon et al., 2002). Internet provides good potential for customer satisfaction, as well as help to retain them. Web site can provide free customer support services, which will encourage repeat visits. Additionally, value-added services or feedback can be provided to the customers in order to retain existing customers and attract new (Siyal et al., 2006). 2.5. Benefits of the online shopping As discussed previously, there are a lot of factors that affect consumers purchasing process. Those factors reflect both, advantages as well as disadvantages of Internet as a shopping medium. The advantages or benefits of online shopping considered by customers described as the followings. 2.5.1 Convenience The customers expect online shopping to be easier and more convenient than as compare to traditional (Shun, 2006). Convenience is appearing very obvious at the stage of information search. According to Kotler (2003) The Internet is an almost perfect market due to the fact that information provided immediately and buyers can make a comparison of offers globally. As a result, consumers require minimal effort and time in order to compare and contrast competitive products. 2.5.2. Time saving According to Rayport et al. (2003) those who buy clothing on Web most often appreciate time saving. The process of locating merchants, finding items and procure offerings is easier in online environment (Maruca, 1999), which means online shopping can economize on time. Consumers do not require leaving their houses and spent time for travelling in order to make merchandise. Additionally, online environment allows browsing for needed items by size, category or price. Browsing and time benefits of online shopping represent the positive perception of e-satisfaction (Lichtenthal, 2004). 2.5.3. Product related benefits Comparing with a conventional retailer, e-retailer is able to offer a more wider range of products, because e-retailer do not have physical restrictions in terms of the amount and cost of floor space which is needed to display goods (Kanttila, 2005). Furthermore, it is less costly and easier for e-retailer to form alliances with other supplier, which brings more extensive inventories. 2.5.4. Lower price Internet enhances customer knowledge about pricing. In online environment customers are able to visit sites of competitors and compare the prices; moreover intermediaries provide price comparisons, which make process of evaluation more convenient and time saving (Gunasekaran et al., 2004). This transparency of price increases the competition between e-retailers and drives the price down. Furthermore the cost for performing online business is lower than for offline (e.g. minimal staffing cost, no retail space costs), this also lead to lower prices (Brown et al., 2003). However, some researches show those consumers are ready to pay for the online products same as for offline in exchange for the convenience (Rayport et al., 2003). 2.6. Perceived risks of online shopping Perceived risk can be defined as the uncertainty which arise when customer cannot predict the consequences of purchase decision (Farley et al., 1973). The level of risk can vary depending on individuals, personality, situation and product. However, perceived risk can be reduced to some acceptable level in any purchase situation. 2.6.1. Risk of privacy Privacy may mean diverse things to different people. Generally privacy refers to a moral right of individuals to avoid interruption interruptions into their personal life and affairs by third parties (Rotem-Mindali et al., 2006). Privacy is the main factor which stops many consumers from online shopping. Most of the time individuals get afraid that their private information can be sold, used, shared or discovered in an incorrect manner. According to Kanttila (2005)  fears and concerns of online purchasing reduce online purchasing decisions. 2.6.2. Security risk Security risks are often related to privacy issues. Security, especially online payment security is one of the main concerns for the consumers in e-shopping (Shun, 2006). Even the Internet and advanced technology improving fast, there are still high proportion of online users who are very cautious about making online purchase due to the concerns over credit and debit card security. Majority of customers have concerns whether the company is legal and private information will be not distributed to third parties, due to high percentage of hackers operating online (Siyal et al., 2006). 2.6.3. Lack of inspection before purchase Absence of direct sensory cues is another perceived risk, which is often mentioned both by marketers and customers. According to Schiffman Kanuk (2004 the fact that consumers are unable to touch products offered online is considered as significant drawback. This fact leads to more uncertainties regarding online shopping, because consumers have doubts about quality of the purchased product. This is also the reason why a lot of products which require high involvement are seldom purchased online (Rayport et al., 2003). 2.6.4. Risk of delivery Another drawback of online purchase is time between the purchase was made and time it received. When purchasing online, consumers cannot obtain the purchased product directly after transaction (Mutz, 2005). After the transaction was made the product will reach customer via home/office delivery sometime later. Therefore the reliability of delivery is another concerning issue. Additional problem which involved in delivery process is speed. One more issue to consider about home delivery is the presence of customer at home (Lichtenthal, 2004). Sometimes time of the delivery can be uncertain, and such situation can also lead to uncertainty. 2.6.5. Risk of returning Product returns are essential for the customers convenience and satisfaction. Majority of researches shows that the rate of online returns are low, however it is only due to the fact that customers find the process of returning is too complex (Constantinides, 2004). Such disgruntled customers are unlikely to continue online shopping in future (Case, 2002). Another issue in returning goods is that money usually are paid through credit or debit card, and here arise another problem of returning money back on the customer account, which depend not on e-company, but on the bank through which purchase was done. 2.7. Summary It is unarguable that the Internet has become an important part of peoples lives, enabling the fast growth of e-commerce. Currently, e-commerce is making improvements in customers satisfaction and tries to involve more people in online business environment (Chen Dubinsky, 2003). Consumer perception is the creator of customer performance, at the same time customer actions are the output of consumer perception (Citrin et al., 2000). It is useful to understand factors which influence buyers perception and purchasing behaviour. The adaptation of Internet creates a great impact on purchasing behaviour by providing more information, facilitating evaluation and decision making, and after-sales feedback. Additionally, online shopping includes different benefits and risks related to factors influencing consumer purchasing behaviour. The main benefits of online shopping are: Convenience Time saving Great product choice Product customization Lower prices The most common perceived risks of online shopping are: Privacy risks Security risks Lack of inspection Delivery issues Inconvenience of returning References Anonymous (2009) Asia Internet Usage and population [online] Available at http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats3.htm#asia [accessed 4 July 2010] Anonymous (NY) Buyer Behaviour decision-making process[online] Available at http://tutor2u.net/business/marketing/buying_decision_process.asp [accessed 4 July 2010] Anonymous (2009) Focus on customers to increase sales marketing tips[online] Available at http://www.slideshare.net/roymogg/marketing-focus-on-the-customer-presentation [accessed 3 July 2010] Ajzen, Icek Fishbein, Martin (1980) Understanding Attitudes and Predicting Social Behavior. Prentice Hall; Facsimile edition, pp. 63-245 Andreasen, A. 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Minority Voter Intimidation and Suppression in America Today Essay

Summary of Paper The Government of the United States is one which exists on the belief that all citizens of the country should have an equal say in the function of the government. In essence, this means all eligible citizens are guaranteed the right to vote and that, according to legislation passed decades ago, it is a crime to hinder ones right to vote. Despite this fundamental property of our democracy, several groups of people have, it seems, been marginalized and intimidated in such a way that their right to vote, as well as their effectiveness in elections, has been diminished. Stemming from conflicts during and following the Civil War, minority voters have consistently had to overcome immense obstacles to exercise the fundamental right, which was assured to them in the Constitution of the United States. Beginning with the use of incredibly violent and straight-foreword means, the suppression of the minority vote has morphed into something that is difficult to combat. Over time, as legislation has been introduced in an attempt to eliminate the intimidation of minorities, the methods utilized to intimidate have been forced to adapt and become stealthier. After the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the federal government was able to enforce keep discriminatory voting practices from going into effect in many states. Still then, the violations continued and the methods for suppressing minority voters only changed. Even today, certain groups are utilizing tactics such as voter legislation and voter marginalization to make minorities feel as if their votes do not count or that it is too difficult to cast a vote. Things such as voter identification laws, misleading informational campaigns, and intimidation are all tactics that have been utilized in the most recent American elections. In order to stop the spread of these tactics and ensure minority voters are guaranteed the rights of every other citizen, action must be taken in a variety of ways. Suppression of the Minority Vote The Government of the United States is one which exists on the belief that all citizens of the country should have an equal say in the function of the government. In essence, this means all eligible citizens are guaranteed the right to vote and that, according to legislation passed decades ago, it is a crime to hinder ones right to vote. Despite this fundamental property ... ...r the ongoing problem. The only real long-term solution proposed would establish some sort of commission for voting equality, which would oversee all elections and electoral legislation, though such a commission would certainly be nearly impossible. Works Cited American Civil Liberties Union, â€Å"Reaffirmation or Requiem for the Voting Rights Act?† CBS News. N.p., 29 Oct. 2012. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . Election Protection. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "G.O.P. to Expand 'Ballot Security' It Used in Jersey." New York Times. N.p., 9 Nov. 1981. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "Voter Fraud and Voter Intimidation." United States Commission on Civil Rights. N.p., 13 Oct. 2006. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "Voter Intimidation and Suppression in America Today." People for the American Way. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . Minority Voter Intimidation and Suppression in America Today Essay Summary of Paper The Government of the United States is one which exists on the belief that all citizens of the country should have an equal say in the function of the government. In essence, this means all eligible citizens are guaranteed the right to vote and that, according to legislation passed decades ago, it is a crime to hinder ones right to vote. Despite this fundamental property of our democracy, several groups of people have, it seems, been marginalized and intimidated in such a way that their right to vote, as well as their effectiveness in elections, has been diminished. Stemming from conflicts during and following the Civil War, minority voters have consistently had to overcome immense obstacles to exercise the fundamental right, which was assured to them in the Constitution of the United States. Beginning with the use of incredibly violent and straight-foreword means, the suppression of the minority vote has morphed into something that is difficult to combat. Over time, as legislation has been introduced in an attempt to eliminate the intimidation of minorities, the methods utilized to intimidate have been forced to adapt and become stealthier. After the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the federal government was able to enforce keep discriminatory voting practices from going into effect in many states. Still then, the violations continued and the methods for suppressing minority voters only changed. Even today, certain groups are utilizing tactics such as voter legislation and voter marginalization to make minorities feel as if their votes do not count or that it is too difficult to cast a vote. Things such as voter identification laws, misleading informational campaigns, and intimidation are all tactics that have been utilized in the most recent American elections. In order to stop the spread of these tactics and ensure minority voters are guaranteed the rights of every other citizen, action must be taken in a variety of ways. Suppression of the Minority Vote The Government of the United States is one which exists on the belief that all citizens of the country should have an equal say in the function of the government. In essence, this means all eligible citizens are guaranteed the right to vote and that, according to legislation passed decades ago, it is a crime to hinder ones right to vote. Despite this fundamental property ... ...r the ongoing problem. The only real long-term solution proposed would establish some sort of commission for voting equality, which would oversee all elections and electoral legislation, though such a commission would certainly be nearly impossible. Works Cited American Civil Liberties Union, â€Å"Reaffirmation or Requiem for the Voting Rights Act?† CBS News. N.p., 29 Oct. 2012. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . Election Protection. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "G.O.P. to Expand 'Ballot Security' It Used in Jersey." New York Times. N.p., 9 Nov. 1981. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "Voter Fraud and Voter Intimidation." United States Commission on Civil Rights. N.p., 13 Oct. 2006. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. . "Voter Intimidation and Suppression in America Today." People for the American Way. N.p., n.d. Web. 6 Dec. 2014. .

Benefits and Effectiveness of Accounting Essay

The research was based on two variables these are computerized accounting systems which comprise of definitions, components of computerized accounting software and benefits and limitation of computerized system and financial reporting which also comprises of definitions of financial reports, benefits and effectiveness of accounting system used at National Water and Sewerage Corporation. The study will enable management to understand the significance of preparing quality and reliable financial reports. The study will point out weakness in the accounting system which management needs to address. The Government of Malaysia through the Department of Accountant General (MDAG) has instructed MARA to implement the Standard Accounting System for Government Agencies (SAGA). This is a total Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System, developed based on web-based application and is using an accrual basis of accounting. The SAGA financial system enables its users, particularly the government agencies to close their accounts on a daily basis, monitor their daily financial activities as well as produce standardized financial reports to the stakeholders at any place and any time. However, upon completion of the SAGA financial system analysis, MARA identifies that the system could not cater all MARA business activities. Processes such as disbursement of scholarship and loans to students and entrepreneurs are not covered by the system. As such, MARA still has to maintain its existing databases and therefore made special request to the MDAG to exclude the implementation of SAGA while awaiting MARA ICT consultant’s recommendations on the development of a new MARA Total Information and Financial System. As a conclusion, the SAGA financial systems could not be used by MARA on its own. The end-users in MARA need to operate both, SAGA and its own systems at the same time. This situation could lead to users’ confusion if they are to use different type of system when updating certain type of financial transaction. This is because the end-user of MARA Computerized Accounting System could only utilized the SAGA Financial System just for ordinary operating expenditures whilst any disbursement of expenditure pertaining to subsidiary system, they still need to use the existing MARA Financial Systems. Consequently, internal controls and security functions may not be easily built in the systems. Concurrent use of both systems may affect job satisfaction and performance of the end-users. Introducing Computerized Accounting Information Systems in a Developing Nation: Egyptian International Motors This study aims to assess the implementation of accounting information system on a company in a developing nation. To answer this question this manuscript attempts to do the following: (1) identify the reasons for the shift to an automated system and the main goals that the company aim to achieve form this shift, (2) determine the company’s strategic decisions like choices between outsourcing versus in-house development, and ready made packages versus tailor made software, (3) describe the steps of implementation, (4) understand the reaction of the employees to the new automated system, (5) study the required changes on the organizational chart and human resources qualifications that are required, (6) recognize the problems that the company met during the process, (6) point the advantages of the shift to the automated system. A computerized accounting System provides many advantages over manual systems, for example entries do not have to be recorded in multiple ledgers so as to fulfill the cardinal rules of financial reporting.A single entry is made and the system will populate all the appropriate corresponding accounts automatically. Computerized accounting also makes it possible for people in other departments,not just accounting to enter data.It does not require avast amount of accounting knowledge for a payroll clerk to enter wages details into the accounts,a basic understanding of how to use the system is sufficient The study intends to find out the effect of a computerized accounting system on the quality of financial reports generated by an organization. To examine the effect of computerize accounting systems quality financial reporting. To determine the challenges encountere by organizations before and after implementing a computerized accounting system. To identify strategies/measures of ensuring quality financial reporting. An accounting system is part of the organisation’s management information system therefore a good or decent accounting system must be able to produce reports like trial balance, aged debtors and aged creditors. Accounting systems must provide data that should enable the production of management accounts, statutory accounts and must also assist the managers and accountants in discharging their stewardship roles. Production Of Accounts A good system should enable the firm to produce its management reports and management accounts at short notice. This will enable the organisation to monitor performance, to take decisions quickly and to make decision based on objective and verifiable information. Audit Trail Audit trail is very important as it will enable auditors and senior managers to monitor transactions entered in the accounting system and this will ensure that there is information integrity. A good system should document the changes that have been made in the system, who made the changes and it should also be able to track what was changed. Compatibility With Other Programmes A strong characteristic of a good accounting system is that it must be compatible with other systems. For example, it should easily be configurable so that it can communicate with other programmes like Excel or Crystal. An accounting system should be able to export transactions and reports into Excel and it should allow data and transactions to be imported from an external source. This will lead to time savings as there will be no need to duplicate a role or process. Error Detection If an accounting system does not dictate errors then it is not a good accounting package as it is failing to perform a basic functionality. An accounting package should decline to post transactions that do not balance for example the total debits should equal the total credits and if this is not the case, then the accounting system should automatically flag this error. Internal Controls Internal controls are the eyes and ears of the organisation and a good accounting system should embed these internal controls into the system. Internal controls enable prevention and detection of fraud and error. An accounting system should enable internal control tools like segregation of duties, reconciliations and account allocations. A good accounting system should not allow users to delete data that has been posted into the system. Manual Vs Computerized Accounting Computerized accounting systems provide more benefits than manual ones, allowing for more accurate calculations, in less time. Compared to manual accounting, with a computerized system errors are far less common, eliminating human error. And with accounting programs that are industry-specific, you can benefit from various preset templates for your general ledger, saving more time. You can store virtually endless information, without any trouble at all. And if you later want to review financial information from several years ago, with a computerized accounting system you can do it easily, while with a manual one you would have to sort through stacks of paper ledgers. Bottom line, both systems may be useful to some extent. But for more accurate bookkeeping and increased efficiency, a computerized accounting system seems to have more advantages. You can find several free versions online, as well as more proficient accounting software available for purchase. Search online for such accounting systems, read about their features and decide which one would be better for your particular business needs. Although they will not allow you to physically handle the ledgers, it will provide a better accounting solution. The advantages of Computerized Accounting seem to be unknown by business owners and individuals who are in doubt of purchasing Accounting Software. Accounting Software has been a trend nowadays. With the vast Computerized System Providers and wide range of versions to choose from, Accounting System has evolved to be one of the trends in information technology. Computerized Systems are designed to create more value in Financial Accounting. Value can be relayed in terms of speed, accuracy and reliability of accounting data. With Computerized System, invoices can be transmitted in an instant through email; inventories are appropriately monitored; and disbursements are tracked for payments to be done before due dates. It helps Bookkeepers to reduce manual activities. When transactions are entered in the Accounting System, automatic entries are posted to generate data needed for financial reporting. Accounting Software enables Bookkeepers and Accountants to adjust necessary accounts to reflect the correct amount of each Account. Computerized Accounting allows Accountants to trace erroneous data and entry in a creative and organized manner through the help of summaries, list of accounts and original entries. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Tsang Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7017983 Computers are extensively used in accounting and there are multitude of computer software for Accounting, MIS, CRM. HiTech Financial Accounting is one such software which has been customized for users in many segments in business and services. Payroll accounting was the first commercial area to become widely computerized. The calculation of wages or salaries involves a number of variables which relate to the personal details of each employee, such as gross pay or rate for the job, individual deductions, tax liabilities of the employees and so on. These facts can be retained in the computers and processed every month of produce pay slips for the employees. The computer helps to exercise the type of stock control needed by the organization. It up to dates the sales and purchases records, determines optimum re-order levels for different items and prints out the stock lists when desired. The system can be so designed that it triggers orders when stock level reaches order point for variou s material items; tests those item which are slow moving or gives list for over stock items. Programming can be done for any sales accounting system. The computer will pin point defaulting debtors, determine the right limit for credit for each debtor and maintain stores ledger. Costing and budgetary control can be affected through the computer, the computer will point out the variations from the planned performance.The computer also helps greatly in production planning and control. It is possible that scheduling of the work may become necessary due to break downs etc. A new critical path may have to be worked out. A critical path is the shortest path to be followed in production to achieve production objectives. The computer helps the management lay down this new critical path. The increasing competition and the highly demands of globalization, Malaysia government attempt for Small Medium Enterprise, SME for the development of innovative, competitive with high technology. Computerized accounting system (CAS) adoption may be decisive factor for an organization to be success and also to survive. This research project which aimed to investigate SME practice of CAS and to identify the factor affecting the adoption among SMEs in Melaka. A survey was carried out through a set of questionnaires to examine the CEO Innovativeness Factors Scale, Perceive Usefulness Factors Scale, Perceive Ease of Use Factors Scale and Business Competitiveness. The sample selected comprised of CEOs of SMEs in three districts in Melaka, namely Melaka Tengah, Alor Gajah and Jasin. The data gathered were coded and analyzed using descriptive statistics, linear regression analysis, Pearson Correlation analysis and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).This study reveals that CAS adoption rate in SMEs in Melaka is high. Results from the analysis also shown the significant of independent variables and proved the relationships have been substantiated to the dependent variable which contribute to the usage of CAS adoption between SMEs in Melaka. The findings indicate that CEO innovativeness; perceive ease of use and business competitiveness negatively correlated to the adoption of CAS. Results reveals that only perceive usefulness are significantly positive correlated to CAS adoption. Therefore it can be deduced that adoption of CAS among SMEs in Melaka is caused by its usefulness. The findings reveal that types of business and business location influence the adoption of CAS. However, size (paid up capital, sales turnover and number of employee) do not influence the adopter. Results also indicate that CEO literacy on ICT, accounting and CAS has influence the responded CEO to adopt CAS in their business. However, the advantages by using the accounting systems software were not fully utilized by CAS adopters. http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ijbm/article/view/18273

Glass Ceiling An Invisible Barrier to Success

Glass ceiling means an invisible upper limit in corporations and other organizations, above which it is difficult or impossible for women to rise in the ranks.  Glass ceiling is a metaphor for the hard-to-see informal barriers that keep women from getting promotions, pay raises, and further opportunities.  The glass ceiling metaphor has also been used to describe the limits and barriers experienced by minority racial groups. It is glass because its not usually a visible barrier, and a woman may not be aware of its existence until she hits the barrier. In other words, its not an explicit practice of discriminating against women  Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã‚  though specific policies, practices, and attitudes may exist that produce this barrier without the intention to discriminate.   The term was invented to apply to major economic organizations, like corporations, but later began to be applied to invisible limits above which women had not risen in other fields, especially electoral politics. The U.S. Department of Labors 1991 definition of the glass ceiling is those artificial barriers based on attitudinal or organizational bias that prevent qualified individuals from advancing upward in their organization into management-level positions. Glass ceilings exist even in organizations with explicit policies around equality of advancement when there is implicit bias at work or even behavior within the organization that ignores or undermines the explicit policy. Origin of the Phrase The term glass ceiling was popularized in the 1980s. The term was used in a 1984 book  The Working Woman Report by Gay Bryant.  Later, it was used in a 1986  Wall Street Journal  article on barriers to women in high corporate positions. The Oxford English Dictionary notes that the first use of the term was in 1984, in  Adweek:  Women have reached a certain point  Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã‚  I call it the glass ceiling. Theyre in the top of middle management and theyre stopping and getting stuck. A related term is a pink-collar ghetto, referring to jobs to which women are often relegated. Arguments That Theres No Glass Ceiling Womens liberation, feminism, and civil rights legislation already provide for womens equality.Womens job choices keep them off of the executive track.Women dont have the right educational preparation for senior executive jobs (e.g. an MBA).Women who do make job choices that put them on the executive track and do have the right educational preparation have not been in the corporation long enough to build up experience  Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã‚  and this will automatically correct itself with time.   Has There Been Progress? The conservative feminist organization Independent Womens Forum points out that in 1973, 11% of corporate boards had one or more women members and in 1998, 72% of corporate boards had one or more women members. On the other hand, the Glass Ceiling Commission (created by Congress in 1991 as a 20-member bipartisan commission) looked at Fortune 1000 and Fortune 500 companies in 1995 and found that only 5% of the senior management positions were held by women. Elizabeth Dole  once said,  My objective as Secretary of Labor is to look through the glass ceiling to see who is on the other side, and to serve as a catalyst for change. In 1999, Carleton (Carly) Fiorina, was named CEO of a Fortune 500 company (Hewlett-Packard) and she declared that women now faced no limits whatsoever. There is not a glass ceiling. The number of women in senior executive positions still lags considerably behind the number of men. A 2008 survey from Reuters showed that 95% of American workers believe that women have made important advances in the workplace over the last 10 years but 86% believe that the glass ceiling has not been broken, even if it has been cracked. Political Glass Ceilings In politics, this phrase was first used in 1984 when Geraldine Ferraro was nominated as a vice-presidential candidate (with Walter Mondale as presidential nominee). She was  the first woman nominated for that spot by a major U.S. party. When Hillary Clinton gave her concession speech after narrowly losing the primaries to Barack Obama in 2008, she said, Although we weren’t able to shatter that highest, hardest glass ceiling this time, thanks to you, it’s got about 18 million cracks in it.  The term became quite popular again after Clinton won the California primary in 2016 and then when she was officially nominated for president, the first woman in that position with a major political party in the United States. Sources A Report on the glass ceiling initiative. United States. Dept. of Labor, 1991.Elizabeth Hanford Dole. National Women’s Hall of Fame, 2019.Glass Ceiling. Merriam-Webster, 2019.Keneally, Meghan. Hillary Clintons Progress Trying to Shatter That Highest, Hardest Glass Ceiling. ABC News, November 9, 2016.Newsweek Staff. In a League of Her Own. Newsweek, August 1, 1999.