A - Read the Parts Emporium case at the end of Chapter 9.
Case Background: You are to take on the role of Sue McCaskey. Address your brief to Dan Block and Ed Spriggs.
Download the 5-step critical-thinking decision-making matrix.
Complete the questions concerning Step 1: Identify the problem(s) and uncertainties based on the assigned problem.
Complete Step 2: Obtaining Information on the matrix.
Complete Step 3: Make predictions about the future on the matrix.
Complete Step 4: Make decisions by choosing among the alternatives on the matrix.
Review the Sample Business Brief and the grading rubric for the assignment.
Write a one-page analysis according to the Business Brief Guidelines. Complete sentences must be used (bullets not acceptable). Your analysis must be written using a concise writing style. Your brief should incorporate all of following instructions:
An opening paragraph briefly introducing the case situation.
Note: The first half of opening paragraph is to provide a synopsis of the company. The second half of the opening paragraph is state the problem (From Step 1 of the matrix).
Analysis header – The analytical section should be based on your personal assessment of the situation. Develop your analysis by addressing the following points. The information for this section of brief should be derived from Steps 2 and 3 of the matrix.
The issues facing the company due to its inventory problems.
Conclusion header – This section should include your opinion based on your analysis of the case information and situation outcome. Your recommendation should address the following points and provide only key relevant information and logical discussion in support of your opinion. (From Step 4 of the matrix)
How the company should manage the inventory of the two items, recognizing all the relevant costs associated with the recommendation.
By how much the recommendations for these two items reduce annual cycle inventory, stockout, and ordering costs.

B - Read the Yankee Fork and Hoe Company case at the end of Chapter 14.
Case Background: You work for an outside consultant hired by the company. The owner (Alan Roberts) has asked you to provide an analysis of this problem and make a recommendation; therefore, you will address the brief to your Alan Roberts.
Download the 5-step critical-thinking decision-making matrix.
Complete the questions concerning Step 1: Identify the problem(s) and uncertainties based on the assigned problem.
Complete Step 2: Obtaining Information on the matrix.
Complete Step 3: Make predictions about the future on the matrix.
Complete Step 4: Make decisions by choosing among the alternatives on the matrix.
Review the Sample Business Brief and the grading rubric for the assignment.
Write a one-page analysis according to the Business Brief Guidelines. Complete sentences must be used (bullets not acceptable). Your analysis must be written using a concise writing style. Your brief should incorporate all of following instructions:
An opening paragraph briefly introducing the case situation.
Note: The first half of opening paragraph is to provide a synopsis of the company. The second half of the opening paragraph is state the problem (From Step 1 of the matrix).
Analysis header – The analytical section should be based on your personal assessment of the situation. Develop your analysis by addressing the following point. The information for this section of brief should be derived from Steps 2 and 3 of the matrix.
Discuss the issues with the forecasting system currently being used by Yankee.
Conclusion header – This section should include your opinion based on your analysis of the case information and situation outcome. Your recommendation should address the following question and provide only key relevant information and logical discussion in support of your opinion. (From Step 4 of the matrix)
How can the forecasting system used by Yankee be improved? Justify your changes.
Using the forecasting system you are recommending, develop a forecast for bow rakes for each month of the next year (year 5). Justify your forecast.

A - Read the Parts Emporium case at the end of Chapter 9. Case Bac...