PwC presents 10Minutes

Effective audit committees

Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 EDT

Audit committees, management, and auditors work together to meet the information needs of the capital markets and to ensure quality audits and financial reporting. The leading practices in this 10Minutes may help audit committees continue to improve their oversight of auditors and management, thereby enhancing the quality of audits and financial reporting.

10Minutes on business continuity management

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EDT

The best disaster survival manual may be obsolete if it doesn’t anticipate major disruptions to the supply chain or at outsourced operations. As a result, business continuity management programs are being designed to continually assess— as well as counter—risks stemming from the interdependencies integral to running a business.

10Minutes on the CEO agenda 2012

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EDT

For 2012, US CEOs show measured optimism as they face wide disparities in their operations around the world. Slow recovery at home and the crisis in Europe are immediate concerns. But they are taking deliberate steps to grow in priority markets.

10Minutes on managing water scarcity

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST

Managing risks related to dwindling freshwater supply is becoming more urgent for businesses. This 10Minutes discusses how companies can prepare for the consequences of water scarcity by monitoring water use, evaluating risk across the supply chain, and partnering with local communities to replenish water supply.

Customer impact

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Designing and delivering truly exceptional customer experiences has become the key to achieving sustainable, profitable organic growth. In fact, new socio-economic and demographic conditions have fused themselves with technological innovation to redefine the very nature of customer value and how businesses should go about delivering it.

Medical innovation

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST

The way we assess value in medical technology is changing radically. Payers are refusing to pay for incremental innovations that do not significantly improve health or reduce cost.

Expanding business in Asia Pacific

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST

As Asia Pacific economies continue their rapid growth and become more deeply integrated, multinational companies are changing how they're expanding in the region for the long-haul--from setting up regional hubs and distribution networks, to developing local talent, to building brand loyalty amongst the region's rapidly growing number of middle class consumers.

Updating flexibility strategies

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:00:00 EST

Employees with access to flexible work arrangements (FWAs) tend to be more satisfied, committed and engaged with their jobs, which leads to increased innovation, quality, productivity, and growth.

10Minutes on the Boardroom Agenda

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST

In this short report, PwC discusses new governance regulations, new risks, and issues of executive compensation and succession planning.

10Minutes on changing corruption risks

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EDT

As more and more businesses go global, and more countries step up enforcement, multinationals’ risks multiply dramatically. PwC offers a short primer on anti-corruption policies and procedures.

10 Minutes on why you want to get into healthcare

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Healthcare will reach nearly 20% of the US GDP by 2019 and is bursting with new products and services. It is also enticing more and more businesses to enter this marketplace. Here’s why you should take note.

Investing in Africa

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Africa has some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and offers the highest risk-adjusted returns on foreign direct investment among emerging economies. To succeed, investors must look beyond dazzling returns and one-off projects, and sign on as participating partners in Africa's long-term growth and development.

The Future of revenue recognition

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Revenue, or the “top line,” is a closely monitored measure of an entity's growth and market share. The FASB and IASB are currently in the process of replacing existing revenue guidance with a new global accounting standard for all revenue transactions. How will this change affect your business?

Doing deals in China

Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 EDT

Companies seeking growth in China are exploring alternatives to outright M&A strategies, acquisitions, traditional joint ventures, wholly foreign owned entities (WFOEs), and dollar-denominated private equity funds to succeed. Here we discuss their approach.

10Minutes on the CEO agenda

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST

The changing global economy, emerging markets and a renewed focus on growth — how are companies capitalising on opportunities to increase revenue, create innovative products and services, and fill skills gaps in unfamiliar parts of the world?

The future of lessee accounting

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:00:00 EST

As early as 2014, in the US and internationally, leases could be required to appear on companies' balance sheets, which will impact debt and earnings metrics, and some companies' ability to borrow or spend capital PwC looks at the issue, and how procurement, IT, tax, treasury, operations, HR, finance and accounting can all be affected.

Engaging your pivotal talent

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST

Higher employee engagement means improved retention, customer loyalty, revenue, sales and profit. But should you strive to raise engagement among all employees? The answer may surprise you.

Information security

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EDT

Emerging technologies like cloud computing and social media are growing more sophisticated, but so are hacker techniques. As companies look at growth initiatives and ways to hold down costs, what should CIOs do to protect critical data and avoid other information security risks?

US financial reform

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EDT

The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (The Dodd-Frank Act)ushers in a new financial regulatory architecture. Of chief concern to business leaders: How will The Act affect my company's ability to fund its needs, maintain liquidity, earn competitive rates on cash and investments, manage commodity and financial risks through derivatives, and provide financing to my customers?

The cloud

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EDT

Cloud computing can help businesses meet demands for greater agility as it is changing the ability for companies to deliver solutions at the new speed of business. Cloud computing solutions have the potential to accelerate innovation and time-to-market, enhance customer engagement, and improve connections across the network of suppliers, time zones, and cultures.

10Minutes on trust and transparency

Tue, 18 May 2010 12:00:00 EDT

What actions are companies taking to restore, sustain or enhance trust in business? We take a closer look at this and identify some potential benefits of those actions, like better risk management, operational innovations and sources of companies' next competitive advantage.

10Minutes on the CIO

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EDT

Though c-suite executives are pretty comfortable with technology these days, they can work with their CIOs and CTOs to use new technology to build competitive advantage. With new products and services, CIOs and CTOs are helping to win loyal customers while running increasingly efficient IT organizations. Is your company embracing these opportunities? If not, here’s some insight into what you can do.

10Minutes on health reform

Sat, 10 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EDT

Companies will need to re-examine their benefits strategies in the wake of Congress’ passage of the most substantial change to the health system since Medicare. How can agile companies prepare for the major changes coming their way, since the new healthcare bill will affect all employers regardless of size?

10Minutes on transforming HR

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EDT

The link between talent and business results was apparent during the financial crisis, as pivotal employees proved the difference at many firms. HR can play a key role in growing a company’s bottom line through four key actions: building the brand, aligning talent and corporate strategies, developing talent and measuring success. What is your HR department doing to help your company’s performance?

10Minutes on global infrastructure

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EDT

In this business brief, PwC discusses the risks and opportunities associated with global infrastructure investment, and offers insight into optimal project management, governance and assurance.

10Minutes on compensation

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST

PwC looks at how new federal guidance refines the pay-for-performance compensation model for all public companies, not just banks and financial services institutions.

10Minutes on maximizing internal audit

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 07:00:00 EST

In this business brief, PwC shows how enhancing Internal Audit's role can help you reduce risks, optimize costs, and execute your growth strategies.

10Minutes on post-crisis boardrooms

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:00:00 EST

It’s a year into the financial meltdown. What have directors been thinking and doing about it? Some are putting off key changes to operations and business models until regulators and Congress resolve policy issues like healthcare, greenhouse gas emissions, financial regulation, and executive compensation. Others aren’t waiting around for that to happen. They’re seizing growth opportunities now.

10Minutes on monetizing carbon

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00:00 EST

Mandatory reduction of greenhouse gas emissions will affect all companies, not just heavy emitters. In this business brief, PwC shows what companies can do to prepare for cap-and-trade.

10Minutes on combating corruption

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EDT

We look at how prosecutions and fines are increasing under the FCPA, UNAC regulations, and anti-corruption compliance strategy. We also discuss using forensic due diligence and corporate intelligence to expand into foreign markets.

10Minutes on off-balance-sheet arrangements

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EDT

New reporting requirements for off-balance-sheet arrangements will impact financial reporting as well as current and future business ventures, financing, financial metrics, operations, stakeholder communications, internal controls, and IT systems.

10Minutes on managing diversity

Sun, 26 Jul 2009 12:00:00 EDT

To be successful, diversity efforts must entail more than just feel-good initiatives or programs that can be toppled by budget cuts or lethargy. Take 10Minutes now for PwC’s view on diversity and how cultural dexterity is key to creating sustainable competitive advantage.

10Minutes on supply chain risk management

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:00:00 EDT

Global supply chains are facing major upheavals in the world economy, and manufacturing activity is being particularly hard hit as a result. Add to the mix tight credit and dwindling demand, and bankruptcies increase. Take 10Minutes now for greater insight into supply chains – the pressures they face, how disruptions affect profitability and reputation, and why companies must analyze critical suppliers’ financial and operational metrics.

10Minutes on managing risk and performance

Wed, 27 May 2009 12:00:00 EDT

Companies are under pressure to reform how risk is assessed and to measure its effect on a company’s performance. Linking risk and performance gives companies the confidence to take smart risks.

10Minutes on US infrastructure

Wed, 06 May 2009 12:00:00 EDT

There’s a massive need to renew US infrastructure. What forces are converging now to make it happen? Take 10Minutes for a quick overview of the factors and risks – like skills shortages, hidden costs, vulnerable supply chains and more -- and what goes into good management in today’s environment.

10Minutes on the emerging influence of IFRS

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EDT

How the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards will broaden considerably over the next few years as the convergence of US GAAP and IFRS brings key changes to US financial reporting.

10Minutes on international tax increases

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 12:00:00 EDT

PwC analyzes the proposals to change the taxation of US multinational corporations in President Barack Obama's proposed fiscal year 2010 budget.

10Minutes on realizing ERP value

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EDT

What’s a core factor in whether a company folds or capitalizes from the current economic downturn? Across most industries, it’s enterprise applications – especially those that are agile, efficient and cost-effective. In fact, this 10Minutes looks at how downturns can be the best time to undertake ERP-related actions.

10Minutes on current developments for directors

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EDT

The economic crisis has markedly changed the business and regulatory landscape. Which long-held assumptions about market forces are losing currency, and what will take the place of those assumptions? Here, directors step in with their hands-on experience and wisdom to help management negotiate the new terrain and ultimately keep their companies on course.

10Minutes on the US stimulus package

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST

How will the $787 billion stimulus package put forth by President Obama really affect business and the economy? Will it have the desired impact it claims? Will it force you to change your business strategy and what will you have to keep in mind concerning accountability, transparency and control? Take 10Minutes to find out now...

10Minutes on bolstering corporate liquidity

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST

How do companies today face an environment where credit is still scarce and cash is king? While short-term cash management and tax strategies can provide liquidity relief today, business must also develop a more long-term strategy to bolster liquidity. Take 10Minues now for PwC’s take on the issue.

10Minutes on finance & accounting shared services

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST

How can organizations minimize, offset, or capitalize on the business consequences of a global economic slowdown when deciding to implement or re-evaluate their current shared services centers? Here we give our view.

10Minutes on making divestitures successful

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST

What disadvantages do sellers face from the credit crisis, volatile stock markets and the recession? They have fewer buyers, more caution and lower deal multiples. In response, companies are exploring their options – like divestitures – as a way of raising cash, shedding debt and improving performance. Here we share some ideas on how you can make divestitures successful for your company.

10Minutes on sustainable cost reduction

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST

Companies are justifiably anxious to reduce costs, but a lot of cost-cutting measures are short-term only, which wind up damaging corporate infrastructure and culture and cause struggles long after the recession ends. Take 10Minutes now on PwC’s view of how companies’ COOs should simultaneously tackle both cost reduction and cost management for enduring results.

10Minutes on health reform under Obama

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST

PwC presents an overview of the possible impact the Obama proposals for healthcare reform could have on businesses In the coming year, large employers could face major changes in this area proposed by President Obama and members of the Democratic Congress.

10Minutes on rethinking pivotal talent

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST

Before reflexively introducing across-the-board headcount reductions, it is useful to first identify your "pivotal talent"— those game-changing employees whose performance can make or break your bottom line.

10Minutes on data and identity theft

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT

It’s an interconnected business world. Portability and accessibility of information are crucial components of it This is a great thing -- until the information gets shared with the wrong person. Data and identity theft can be devastating to a company’s brand, reputation and even financial well-being. Take 10Minutes now to learn more about how protection of sensitive information is an overall business issue, not just an IT issue.

10Minutes on transitioning to IFRS

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

With mandatory IFRS transition likely to begin in 2014, companies need to look at how management will communicate with investors post-transition; how some companies may need to change their business practices with customers and vendors; and how the change to IFRS will affect compensation. Here, PwC offers in-depth overview of the issues.

10Minutes on fair value in financial reporting

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Fair value is the best available method for financial instruments but its limitations and challenges should be carefully evaluated before expanding its use beyond where it's applicable today. PwC has some guidance you can use.

10Minutes on tax reform

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Here we outline steps companies should be taking now to anticipate both risks and opportunities from likely tax reform scenarios and how to prepare for potential outcomes.