Q1. Do a detailed benchmarking analysis of the Bookstore's income statement, five product lines, and financial and operating performance measures, using the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada Stores' (AUCC) benchmarking information. Identify performance gaps between the Bookstore results and the AUCC averages and consider possible corrective actions.
Q2. As required by Tom, Emma must develop a few key related short-term goals and related performance measures that could be used in future performance evaluations. What objectives and related performance measures might she consider? Provide specific answers.
Q3. Assuming all AUCC bookstores are suffering from the same trends and experiencing the same financial difficulties, should Milton be benchmarked against the 25th percentile, the average, or the 75th percentile? Why? Assuming all AUCC bookstores are experiencing superior financial performance and sales growth and Milton is experiencing financial difficulties, is the 25th percentile, the median, or the 75th percentile the best source for benchmarking? Why?
Q4. Due to prior superior performance regarding sales of custom materials, assume that Milton has the objective to maintain excellence for this product line. Against which comparison point should this product line be benchmarked (e.g., median, 25th percentile)? Why?
Q5. Assume that there is an independent bookstore located near the campus of Milton University that also sells apparel with the Milton logo as well as new and used textbooks. Against which comparison point should these product lines be benchmarked? Why?
Q6. Based upon your benchmarking analysis, make appropriate recommendations and decisions for the Milton Bookstore.