Discussion 1: "Goods and Service Design"

Respond to the following:

• From the e-Activity, examine some of the steps that are involved in designing goods and services. Select two services or two products that are currently on the market. Use Exhibit 6.1 from Chapter 6 of the text to compare and contrast each step, and determine the similarities and areas where they differ.

• From the e-Activity, suggest at least two changes to specific areas of the process design phase that may lead to improvement in operations. Provide a rationale to support your suggestion.

Discussion 2: "Service Positioning versus Product Process"

Respond to the following:

• Compare and contrast the service positioning matrix and the product process matrix in terms of their differences and similarities.

• Provide at least one example currently used in business for each of the matrixes and evaluate their benefits and limitations within the industry you chose.

• Evaluate how each matrix is unique in the way it addresses the needs of the customer.

Discussion 3: Creating a Solid Financial Plan

Respond to the following:

• Discuss the best way to leverage a breakeven analysis when defining a business strategy.

• Analyze the 12 financial ratios mentioned in the textbook and determine which is the most useful to the greatest number of small businesses. Explain your rationale.

Discussion 4: Managing Cash Flow

Respond to the following:

• Analyze the steps involved in preparing a cash budget and determine which steps presents the greatest number of obstacles to the greatest number of small businesses. Explain your rationale.

• Analyze the steps involved in avoiding a cash crunch and make at least one additional recommendation for doing so. Provide specific examples to support your response.