Definitions Flashcards
Advertising
A method of communicating information about the product; the business pays for advertising time/space
Aim
The intention to reach a goal
Air pollution
The presence or introduction of harmful substances into the air causing disease, allergies or damage to humans, animals, plants or the built environment.
Asset
Something the business owns; it has a value.
Average rate of return
The average profit for the year as a percentage of the original investment. Average rate or return = average return per annum / initial 100
Boston matrix
A tool for analysing the contribution made by each product in a business’ product portfolio. It plots each product’s position according to its market share and the rate of growth of the market.
Brand image
The consumers’ perception of the brand; its character, qualities and shortcomings. It is developed over time and operates as a consistent theme through advertising campaigns.
Break-even chart
A diagrammatic representation of the costs and revenue for a product; it plots total costs against total sales revenue, showing the break-even point where they cross.
Break-even output
The point at which the business’ total sales equals the total costs. There is neither profit nor loss.
Buffer stock
A stock of raw materials held in reserve to protect the production process from unforeseen shortages.
Business plan
A detailed statement of how the business intends to operate, either at start-up or during a given period of time. Business plans are based on forecasts and so cover only a short time.
Cash
Money that the business has in cash or at the bank.
Cash flow forecast
A financial planning tool that estimates the money coming into and going out of the business on a month-by-month basis; it allows the business to predict times when additional finance may be needed to maintain liquidity.
Cash inflow
Money received by the business from its operations or investments.
Cash outflow
Money paid out by the business to fund its operations or investment activities.
Centralisation
Maintaining control by keeping authority at the senior levels of the organisation.
Chain of command
The line through the hierarchy that shows who is responsible for whom from top to bottom of an organisation.
Channels of distribution
The route the ownership of the product transfers from the seller to the buyer; it may be a single transaction or pass through others such as wholesalers, distributors, agents and retailers.
Closing balance
The amount that remains in the account at the end of an accounting period.
Commission
An amount of money paid to an employee that is based on a percentage of the sales he/she achieved; paid in addition to a basic salary.
Competition
The rivalry between businesses looking to sell their goods/services in the same market.
Competitive pricing
Setting the price of a product so that it is in line with competitors’ prices.
Consumer law
Laws designed to ensure that businesses make products that are safe and of good quality, and that they deal with customers honestly and fairly.