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Discussion

Barriers and Solutions to Implementation

You’ve identified a problem, collaborated with your preceptor and team, researched, and planned. However, you are still not yet ready to begin implementing your problem change. Before you can begin the implementation of your problem change, you must consider what barriers might pose potential issues. What might you need to plan for, and how might you address these potential barriers prior to beginning the implementation?

For this Discussion, consider the barriers and solutions associated with your implementation. Consider how these issues can be addressed and examine how these barriers might impact your implementation.

Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources. 

WEEKLY RESOURCES

Learning Resources

Required Resources

• Dang, D., Dearholt, S. L., Bissett, K., Ascenzi, J., & Whalen, M. (2021). Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice for nurses and healthcare professionals: Model and guidelines (4th ed.). Sigma Theta Tau International.
  • Chapter 8, “Translation” (pp. 189–206) 
• Sipes, C. (2024). Project management for the advanced practice nurse (3rd ed.). Springer Publishing.
  • Chapter 4, “Planning: Project Management – Phase 2” (pp. 85–130)
• White, K. M., Dudley-Brown, S., & Terhaar, M. F. (Eds.). (2021). Translation of evidence into nursing and healthcare (3rd ed.). Springer Publishing.
  • Chapter 8, “Methods for Translation” (pp. 173–196)
  • Chapter 9, “Project Management for Translation” (pp. 199–228)
  • Chapter 10, “Ethical Responsibilities of Translation of Evidence and Evaluation” (pp. 229–244)
  • Chapter 17, “Best Practices in Translation: Challenges and Barriers in Translation” (pp. 337–346)
  • Chapter 18, “Legal Issues in Translation” (pp. 347–354) 
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2021). The essentials: Core competencies for professional nursing educationLinks to an external site.. https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/0/PDFs/Publications/Essentials-2021.pdf
• Walden University Oasis: Writing Center. (n.d.). Citations: OverviewLinks to an external site.. https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/apa/citations 
• Walden University Oasis: Writing Center. (n.d.). Common assignments: Discussion postLinks to an external site.. https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/assignments/discussionpost 

Examples of Clinical and Administrative Practice Changes – Implementation of Evidence

• Álvarez-Maldonado, P., Reding-Bernal, A., Hernández-Solís, A., & Cicero-Sabido, R. (2019). Impact of strategic planning, organizational culture imprint and care bundles to reduce adverse events in the ICULinks to an external site.. International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 31(6), 480–484. https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzy198
• Barnes-Daly, M. A., Pun, B. T., Harmon, L. A., Byrum, D. G., Kumar, V. K., Devlin, J. W., Stollings, J. L., Puntillo, K. A., Engel, H. J., Posa, P. J., Barr, J., Schweickert, W. D., Esbrook, C. L., Hargett, K. D., Carson, S. S., Aldrich, J. M., Ely, E. W., & Balas, M. C. (2018). Improving health care for critically ill patients using an evidence-based collaborative approach to ABCDEF bundle dissemination and implementationLinks to an external site.. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, 15(3), 206–216. https://doi.org/10.1111/wvn.12290
• Baughman, A., Cain, G., Ruopp, M., Concepcion, C., Oliveira, C., O’Toole, R., Saunders, S., Jindal, S., Ferreira, M., & Simon, S. (2018). Improving access to care by admission process redesign in a veterans affairs skilled nursing facilityLinks to an external site.. The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety, 44(8), 454–462. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcjq.2018.04.002
• Busca, E., Savatteri, A., Calafato, T. L., Mazzoleni, B., Barisone, M., & Dal Molin, A. (2021). Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of nurse’s role in primary care settings: An integrative reviewLinks to an external site.. BMC Nursing, 20(1), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-021-00696-y
• Curtis, K., Fry, M., Shaban, R. Z., & Considine, J. (2017). Translating research findings to clinical nursing practiceLinks to an external site.. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 26(5–6), 862–872. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.13586
• Lockwood, C., & Hopp, L. (2016). Knowledge translation: What it is and the relevance to evidence-based healthcare and nursingLinks to an external site.. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 22(4), 319–321. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijn.12466
• Naqib, D., Purvin, M., Prasad, R., Hanna, I. M., Dimitri, S., Llufrio, A., & Hanna, M. N. (2018). Quality improvement initiative to improve postoperative pain with a clinical pathway and nursing education programLinks to an external site.. Pain Management Nursing, 19(5), 447–455. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2018.06.005 
• Reed, J. E., Howe, C., Doyle, C., & Bell, D. (2018). Simple rules for evidence translation in complex systems: A qualitative studyLinks to an external site.. BMC Medicine, 92 (16), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-018-1076-9
• Schuller, K. A., Kash, B. A., Edwardson, N., & Gamm, L. D. (2013). Enabling and disabling factors in implementation of Studer Group’s evidence-based leadership initiative: A qualitative case studyLinks to an external site.. Journal of Communication in Healthcare, 6(2), 90–99. https://doi.org/10.1179/1753807613Y.0000000033
• Yeager, L, Karp, S., & Leming-Lee, T. (2019). Barriers to the implementation of pediatric overweight and obesity guidelines in a school-based health centerLinks to an external site.. The Nursing Clinics of North America, 54(1), 159–168.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cnur.2018.10.003
• Assignment Rubric DetailsClose

Rubric

• NURS_8503_Week2_Discussion1_Rubric

NURS_8503_Week2_Discussion1_Rubric
Criteria	Ratings	Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeRESPONSIVENESS TO DISCUSSION QUESTION (20 possible points) Discussion post minimum requirements: The original posting must be completed by Day 3 at 10:59 pm CT. Two response postings to two different peer original posts, on two different days, are required by Day 6 at 10:59 pm CT. Faculty member inquiries require responses, which are not included in the peer posts. Your Discussion Board postings should be written in Standard Academic English and follow APA 7 style for format and grammar as closely as possible given the constraints of the online platform. Be sure to support the postings with specific citations from this week’s learning resources as well as resources available through the Walden University library and other credible online resources (guidelines, expert opinions etc.)	20 to >19.0 pts Excellent • Discussion postings and responses are responsive to and exceed the requirements of the Discussion instructions. • The student responds to the question/s being asked or the prompt/s provided. Goes beyond what is required in some meaningful way (e.g., the post contributes a new dimension, unearths something unanticipated) • Demonstrates that the student has read, viewed, and considered a variety of learning resources, as well as resources available through the Walden University library and other credible online resources (guidelines, expert opinions etc.) • Exceeds the minimum requirements for discussion posts. 19 to >15.0 pts Good • Discussion postings and responses are responsive to and meet the requirements of the Discussion instructions. • The student responds to the question/s being asked or the prompt/s provided. • Demonstrates that the student has read, viewed, and considered a variety of learning resources, as well as resources available through the Walden University library and other credible online resources (guidelines, expert opinions etc.) • Meets the minimum requirements for discussion posts. 15 to >12.0 pts Fair • Discussion postings and responses are somewhat responsive to the requirements of the Discussion instructions. • The student may not clearly address the objectives of the discussion or the question/s or prompt/s. • Minimally demonstrates that the student has read, viewed, and considered a variety of learning resources, as well as resources available through the Walden University library and other credible online resources (guidelines, expert opinions etc.) • Does not meet the minimum requirements for discussion posts; has not posted by the due date at least in part. 12 to >0 pts Poor • Discussion postings and responses are unresponsive to the requirements of the Discussion instructions. • Does not clearly address the objectives of the discussion or the question/s or prompt/s. • Does not demonstrate that the student has read, viewed, and considered a variety of learning resources, as well as resources available through the Walden University library and other credible online resources (guidelines, expert opinions etc.) • Does not meet the requirements for discussion posts; has not posted by the due date and did not discuss late post timing with faculty.	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCONTENT REFLECTION and MASTERY: Initial Post (30 possible points)	30 to >29.0 pts Excellent Initial Discussion posting: • Post demonstrates mastery and thoughtful/accurate application of content and/or strategies presented in the course. • Posts are substantive and reflective, with critical analysis and synthesis representative of knowledge gained from the course readings and current credible evidence. • Initial post is supported by 3 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. 29 to >23.0 pts Good Initial Discussion posting: • Posts demonstrate some mastery and application of content, applicable skills, or strategies presented in the course. • Posts are substantive and reflective, with analysis and synthesis representative of knowledge gained from the course readings and current credible evidence. • Initial post is supported by 3 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. 23 to >18.0 pts Fair Initial Discussion posting: • Post may lack in depth, reflection, analysis, or synthesis but rely more on anecdotal than scholarly evidence. • Posts demonstrate minimal understanding of concepts and issues presented in the course, and, although generally accurate, display some omissions and/or errors. • There is a lack of support from relevant scholarly research/evidence. 18 to >0 pts Poor Initial Discussion posting: • Post lacks in substance, reflection, analysis, or synthesis. • Posts do not generalize, extend thinking or evaluate concepts and issues within the topic or context of the discussion. • Relevant examples and scholarly resources are not provided.	30 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCONTRIBUTION TO THE DISCUSSION: First Response (20 possible points)	20 to >19.0 pts Excellent Discussion response: • Significantly contributes to the quality of the discussion/interaction and thinking and learning. • Provides rich and relevant examples and thought-provoking ideas that demonstrates new perspectives, and synthesis of ideas supported by the literature. • Scholarly sources are correctly cited and formatted. • First response is supported by 2 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. • Responds to questions posed by faculty. 19 to >15.0 pts Good Discussion response: • Contributes to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Provides relevant examples and/or thought-provoking ideas • Scholarly sources are correctly cited and formatted. • First response is supported by 2 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. • Responds to questions posed by faculty. 15 to >12.0 pts Fair Discussion response: • Minimally contributes to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Provides few examples to support thoughts. • Information provided lacks evidence of critical thinking or synthesis of ideas. • There is a lack of support from relevant scholarly research/evidence. • No response to questions posed by faculty. 12 to >0 pts Poor Discussion response: • Does not contribute to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Lacks relevant examples or ideas. • There is a lack of support from relevant scholarly research/evidence. • No response to questions posed by faculty.	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCONTRIBUTION TO THE DISCUSSION: Second Response (20 possible points)	20 to >19.0 pts Excellent Discussion response: • Significantly contributes to the quality of the discussion/interaction and thinking and learning. • Provides relevant examples and thought-provoking ideas that demonstrates new perspectives, and extensive synthesis of ideas supported by the literature. • Second response is supported by 2 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. • Scholarly sources are correctly cited and formatted. • Responds to questions posed by faculty. 19 to >15.0 pts Good Discussion response: • Contributes to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Provides relevant examples and/or thought-provoking ideas • Second response is supported by 2 or more relevant examples and research/evidence from a variety of scholarly sources including course and outside readings. • Scholarly sources are correctly cited and formatted. • Responds to questions posed by faculty. 15 to >12.0 pts Fair Discussion response: • Minimally contributes to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Provides few examples to support thoughts. • Information provided lacks evidence of critical thinking or synthesis of ideas. • Minimal scholarly sources provided to support post. • Does not respond to questions posed by faculty. 12 to >0 pts Poor Discussion response: • Does not contribute to the quality of the interaction/discussion and learning. • Lacks relevant examples or ideas. • No sources provided. • Does not respond to questions posed by faculty.	20 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeQUALITY OF WRITING (10 possible points)	10 to >9.0 pts Excellent Discussion postings and responses exceed doctoral level writing expectations: • Use Standard Academic English that is clear, concise, and appropriate to doctoral level writing. • Make few if any errors in spelling, grammar, that does not affect clear communication. • Uses correct APA 7 format as closely as possible given the constraints of the online platform. • Are positive, courteous, and respectful when offering suggestions, constructive feedback, or opposing viewpoints. 9 to >8.0 pts Good Discussion postings and responses meet doctoral level writing expectations: • Use Standard Academic English that is clear and appropriate to doctoral level writing • Makes a few errors in spelling, grammar, that does not affect clear communication. • Uses correct APA 7 format as closely as possible given the constraints of the online platform. • Are courteous and respectful when offering suggestions, constructive feedback, or opposing viewpoints. 8 to >6.0 pts Fair Discussion postings and responses are somewhat below doctoral level writing expectations: • Posts contains multiple spelling, grammar, and/or punctuation deviations from Standard Academic English that affect clear communication. • Numerous errors in APA 7 format • May be less than courteous and respectful when offering suggestions, feedback, or opposing viewpoints. 6 to >0 pts Poor Discussion postings and responses are well below doctoral level writing expectations: • Posts contains multiple spelling, grammar, and/or punctuation deviations from Standard Academic English that affect clear communication. • Uses incorrect APA 7 format • Are discourteous and disrespectful when offering suggestions, feedback, or opposing viewpoints.	10 pts
Total Points: 100

To Prepare

• Review the Learning Resources covering barriers to implementation.
• Explore the barriers associated with your implementation.
• Consider how you might plan to overcome these barriers.

Discussion Question #4: APA Style

Discussion Question: What strategies can students employ to ensure their APA style paper meets the rigorous standards for citation and formatting? Discuss common pitfalls in APA formatting, including in-text citations, abstract paragraphs, reference lists, and headings, and share effective techniques for mastering these elements to produce a polished, academically sound paper. Develop at least 400 words; submit as an attachment file.

Final Essay (No Extensions)

100 points possible
Controversial Research Topics
Select one topic below to develop your Final Argumentative paper:
1. Gun violence. All people should or should not have the right to own guns.

2. Drug Crisis in the United States. All drugs should or should not be legalized. 

3. All juveniles should or should not be tried and treated as adults in Louisiana.

4. Immigration issues in the United States. Is immigration a pathway to freedom and prosperity in the United States? Should immigrants be allowed to come to the United States? why or why not
5. Should the government tell us what we should or should not do about women’s reproductive rights in the United States? Why or why not/

6. Climate change is or is not humanity’s greatest threat. Why or why not/ 

7. Banning Books in the K-12 educational system. How does banning books affect students’ education?

 Type your paper using the guidelines for APA style.

 You should have an introduction with background information, your thesis sentence, your position on the issue, body paragraphs, an opposition paragraph, and a conclusion. Once completed, include the title page, abstract page, and the reference page. At least 1200 words in length.
 You cannot use 1^st or 2^nd person pronouns in this paper. You can only use 3^rd person pronouns. Do not say, “I think, feel, believe.” Must have at least three sources. Do not use Wikipedia as a source.
Type your assignment in a Word document. Indent each paragraph, double space, 12-inch font, Times New Roman style. Save your file and submit it as an attachment file.

Rubric

Persuasive Writing with APA style as per assignment

Persuasive Writing with APA style as per assignment
Criteria	Ratings	Pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeContent (thesis, support, & unity) Title: The essay’s title suggests the subject and sparks interest.<br/> Thesis Statement: <br/> The persuasive essay’s thesis clearly states what the writer will argue for or against.<br/> Support: The thesis statement is supported with solid reasons: facts, examples, cited authorities, consequences, answers to the opposition. The writer avoids invalid or emotional arguments.<br/> Unity: All paragraphs relate to the thesis statement. The essay does not include irrelevant reasons or information.	10 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks	10 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeORGANIZATION Introduction: The opening paragraph catches the reader’s interest, provides background, and states the thesis.<br/> Order: <br/> The reasons are logically arranged. <br/> Coherence: Paragraphs are linked with repetition, references to preceding words or ideas, transitional expressions, and transitional sentences.<br/> Conclusion: The final paragraph provides an interesting and satisfying ending.	40 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks	40 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeSTYLE Language: <br/> The wording is exact, concise, and fresh.<br/> APA style is used correctly including evidence of intext citations and reference page<br/> Sentences: <br/> Sentences are varied in length and type.	40 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks	40 pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeMECHANICS Grammar and Punctuation: Sentences are free of errors. (See error patterns marked below.)<br/> <br/> Spelling: Sentences are free of errors. (See error patterns marked below.)	10 pts Full Marks 0 pts No Marks	10 pts
Total Points: 100

R1

Throughout this course we will be using RStudio as our environment for working with the R programming language. Please refer to M0: Succeeding in This Course for R and RStudio download instructions.

Before you begin this assignment, make sure that you have reviewed the R videos on this module’s presentation page. You will also find helpful information for getting started with R from Chapter 3 from the Auerbach and Zeitlin text.

When you are ready to begin, complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment:

1. Review the description of the hospital dataset from the Auerbach and Zeitlin text (see pages 41 and 42).
2. Download and open the hospital dataset Download Download and open the hospital datasetand complete the following in RStudio:
   • Use the Hmisc package to determine the percentages for the gender variable, and record these percentages in a document.
   • Use the psych package to determine the mean (average) age of patients, and record these results in a document.
   • For examples, see pages 99, 100, and 104–106 in he Auerbach and Zeitlin text.

Requirements

• Upload the following by the deadline post on this page:
  • A screenshot of RStudio showing that you have installed the gmodels, Hmisc, and psych packages
  • A document with the following information from the hospital dataset:
    • The percentages of the gender variable
    • The mean age of patients.

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R2

Complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment:

A director of research at an acute care hospital observes an increase in the number of patients returning to the hospital within 30 days. The director determines that this is harmful to patients and harmful financially to the hospital. The dataset hospital Download hospitalcontains data on a study the director conducted to determine which factors are related to returning to the hospital in 30 days. You can find a description of the variables in the file on pages 40 and 41 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text.

1. Using the CrossTables() function in the gmodels package, create a table comparing “return30” and “gender.” Then, use the data in your table to answer the question: Who is more likely to return within 30 days?
2. Refer to pages 43-45 in the Auerbach & Zeitlin text (Recoding Data) to create a variable: “age80.”
3. Using the CrossTables() function in the gmodels package, create a table comparing “return30” and “age80.” Then, use the data in your table to answer the question: Who is more likely to return within 30 days?
4. Copy and paste your tables from RStudio and findings into a Word document. Use 10-point, Courier font.
5. Upload your findings.

Note: When you use age80 in the CrossTable() function do not use the syntax hospital$age80. Leave off the “hospital$.” You will still need to include hospital$ with return30. The reason for this is that age80 is not part of the hospital data frame.  Refer to pages 46-47 in the Auerbach & Zeitlin text (saving your transformation) to attach your transformation to your data frame.

Requirements

• Upload your data tables and your findings by the deadline posted on this page.
• Your work should be submitted in a document with 10-point, Courier font.
• This assignment will be graded on the basis of completion.

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Complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment. Please note, the hospital1 data set, which is downloadable via the link in the instructions below, will be used for other R assignments later on in this course.

A director of research at an acute care hospital observes an increase in hospital length of stay (los). The director determines that this is harmful to patients and also harmful financially to the hospital. The dataset hospital1Download hospital1contains data on a study the director conducted to determine which factors are related to longer lengths of stay.

Refer to your textbook and also the R screencast videos on this module’s lecture page for examples.

1. Using the describeBy() function in the psych package create a table comparing “spouse” to “los.” Then, use the data in your table to answer the following question: Which group has the higher mean/average length of stay (los)?
2. Copy and paste your tables from RStudio and findings into a Word document. Use a 10-point, Courier font.
3. Create a box plot comparing “spouse” to “los” (see p. 83 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text). Then, interpret your findings by describing what you see in the box plot (see: page 98 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text).
4. Copy and paste your findings into the same Word document as you did above in Item 2. Copy and paste the graph to the Word document as well (see: the “Introduction to R Graphics” video on this module’s lecture page).
5. Upload your findings.

Requirements

• Upload your data tables and your findings by the deadline posted on this page.
• Your work should be submitted in a document with 10-point, Courier font.
• This assignment will be graded on the basis of completion.

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Complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment.

In this assignment you will enter data into a spreadsheet. You can use any spreadsheet software that can save data in .csv format (Excel, Numbers, Google Docs). Excel is utilized in this module’s lecture video on entering data.

Complete the following steps:

1. For examples, see pages 52–56 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text and this module’s lecture video on entering data.
2. Select the first five variables from the codebook on page 53 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text to create a spreadsheet.
3. Enter the data displayed in the table below.IDgenderagejobleave112522223431324212412322515611
4. Save your spreadsheet in .csv format.
5. Import the data into R (see page 56 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text).
6. Save the file in R format (see page 59 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text).
7. Upload the R and spreadsheet files through this assignment page.

Requirements

• Upload your R file and your spreadsheet (in .csv format) by the deadline posted on this page.
• This assignment will be graded on the basis of completion.

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R5

Complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment.

A director of research at an acute care hospital observes an increase in patients returning to the hospital within 30 days. The director determines that this is harmful to patients as well as financially harmful to the hospital. The dataset hospital1 Download hospital1contains data on a study the director conducted to determine what factors are related to returning to the hospital within 30 days. The director wants to test the hypothesis that patients with and without spouses are not equally likely to return within 30 days. The null hypothesis would be that patients with and without spouses are equally likely to return to the hospital within 30 days.

Refer to your textbook and also the R screencast videos on this module’s lecture page for examples.

1. See pages 111–123 in the Auerbach and Zeitlin text and the chi-square video on this module’s lecture page for examples.
2. Using the CrossTable() function in the gmodels package, create a table comparing “spouse” to “return30.” Interpret the findings you see. Specifically, was the criteria for rejection of the null hypothesis (H0) met? How can you tell?
3. Copy your table from RStudio and your findings to Word document. Use size-10 Courier font.
4. Upload your findings.

Requirements

• Upload your data table and your findings by the deadline posted on this page.
• Your work should be submitted in a document with 10-point Courier font.
• This assignment will be graded on the basis of completion.

—————————————————————————————————————————-R6

Complete the following steps for this module’s R assignment.

A director of research at an acute care hospital observes an increase in hospital lengths of stay (los). The director determines that this is harmful to patients as well as financially harmful to the hospital. The dataset hospital1 Download hospital1contains data on a study the director conducted to determine what factors are related to longer lengths of stay.

Refer to your textbook and also the R screencast videos on this module’s lecture page for examples.

1. Calculate a t-test to test the null hypothesis that patients above and below the age of 80 (age80) have equal lengths of stay (los).
2. Using the describeBy() function in the psych package, create a table comparing “agecat” to “los.” Interpret the findings you see. Which group has the highest mean/average length of stay (los)?
   1. Use ANOVA to test if these differences are significant.
   2. Can you reject the null hypothesis? Explain how you know.
   3. Conduct a TukeyHSD post-hoc to compare groups.
   4. Which groups are significantly different?
3. Using the cor.test() function, test for a relationship between “los” and instrumental activities of daily living (tiadlmean).
4. Copy your table and findings to a Word document; use size-10 Courier font.
5. Upload your findings.

Requirements

• Upload your data table and your findings by the deadline posted on this page.
• Your work should be submitted in a Word document with 10-point Courier font.
• This assignment will be graded on the basis of completion.

Required Readings

Chapter 15

Lancaster, G., & Massingham, L. (2018). Essentials of marketing management (2nd ed.). Routledge

http://ezproxy.umgc.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=1581263&site=ehost-live&scope=site

The final component of your marketing plan is a breakeven analysis report that also includes a schedule for implementation, any needed control measures, and a contingency plan.

Present your breakeven analysis in a table that includes the following details about your client:

• forecasted total number of units sold (for a service industry, products could be service contracts or the number of customers served)
• forecasted average unit price (AUP)
• forecasted total sales (in US dollars)
• forecasted average unit variable cost
• forecasted fixed cost
• breakeven point (units)
• breakeven point (in US dollars)

Read about breakeven analysis  to assist your calculations.

In addition, use the following guidelines as you develop your implementation, controls, and contingency plan:

1. Decide on the team that is going to implement the plan.
2. Determine the time frame for implementation.
3. Secure the financial and human resources needed.
4. Distribute the tasks among team members.
5. Periodically check and communicate performance against the marketing plan metrics (benchmarks) to ensure that implementation is on track.
6. Make changes if there are any deviations from the key performance indicators (KPIs) for those metrics, preferably using a dashboard. KPIs may include the number of sales calls, the number of new customers, sales, profitability, growth, etc.
7. Contingency plans should deal with severe deviations from productions plans, sales figures, market share, profitability, changes in government regulations (e.g., increased taxation), and drastic competitors’ moves (e.g., launching a competing product or service or an offering that may render your offering obsolete or less attractive to the market).

Deliverable: Early in Week 10 submit a report that explains your breakeven analysis. Also, include a table at the end of the report that highlights your financials. In addition, explain your schedule for implementation as well as the controls you intend to put in place and how you intend to proceed when your benchmarks are not met (contingency plan).

Your breakeven analysis and implementation report should be three pages, excluding cover page, the reference list, and appendices. Your report should have one-inch margins and be double spaced in 12-point Times New Roman font. The report should be organized using headings and subheadings to improve its readability.

Support your work with scholarly sources and reliable nonscholarly sources such as Reuters, Bloomberg, Yahoo! Finance, Barrons.com, Morningstar.com, Money, Forbes, Fortune, Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review, as well as the UMGC Library databases such as Hoover’s and ABI/INFORM. All sources need to be cited using APA formatting, both within the text and in the reference list.

HW5 – Analyzing the Performance of Your Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) Cryptocurrency Portfolio

Assignment Instructions:

Overview: Throughout the term, you have been implementing a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy by investing $1 daily in Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), or in a diversified portfolio of cryptocurrencies if you chose to include other assets. Now that we are nearing the end of the course, it’s time to evaluate how your investment has performed and compare it to an alternative strategy of making a lump sum investment at the beginning of the term.

Part 1: Initial Reflection

1. Strategy Reflection:
   • Question: Do you find the dollar-cost averaging strategy to be useful or interesting? Can you envision this strategy being part of a well-diversified portfolio that includes other asset classes (e.g., stocks, bonds, real estate)? What are the benefits of including a DCA strategy within a broader investment portfolio?
   • Response: Provide a thoughtful reflection (100-200 words) on how DCA might complement other investment strategies, considering factors such as risk management, market volatility, and the psychological benefits of regular investing.

Part 2: Portfolio Performance Analysis

1. Performance Comparison:
   • Task: Compare the performance of your DCA investment strategy with the hypothetical scenario where you would have invested a lump sum in the same cryptocurrencies on the first day of the term. Your analysis should consider the following:
     • The total amount invested through DCA versus the amount that would have been invested in the lump sum.
     • The value of your portfolio at the end of the term for both strategies.
     • A comparison of the returns generated by each strategy.
2. Volatility and Risk Analysis:
   • Task: Evaluate the volatility and risk associated with both the DCA strategy and the lump sum investment. Consider the following:
     • How did the DCA strategy help mitigate the effects of market volatility compared to the lump sum investment?
     • Were there periods of significant price fluctuations, and how did these affect each strategy’s performance?

 

 

 

3. Economic Implications:
   • Task: Discuss the economic implications of using a DCA strategy in the context of cryptocurrency investments. Consider the following:
     • How does DCA help in managing the psychological aspects of investing, especially in a highly volatile market like cryptocurrency?
     • What are the potential downsides of DCA, particularly when compared to a lump sum investment during a bullish market?

Part 3: Final Thoughts and Recommendations

1. Final Evaluation:
   • Question: Based on your analysis, which investment strategy do you think was more effective in this context, and why? Would you consider using the DCA strategy in your personal investment portfolio? Provide a rationale for your decision.
   • Response: Write a brief evaluation (100-200 words) summarizing your findings and stating your preference between the DCA strategy and the lump sum investment, supported by the data you analyzed.

Deliverables:

1. Report: Submit a comprehensive report in PDF format that includes:
   • Your reflections from Part 1.
   • Detailed analysis and comparisons from Part 2, including all necessary calculations, charts, or tables to support your analysis.
   • Your final thoughts and recommendations from Part 3.
2. Screenshots: Include screenshots of your cryptocurrency exchange account showing the history of your DCA purchases and the final value of your portfolio. Ensure that your name or account identifier is visible.

Healthcare in the U.S. and Abroad

As the manager of a community healthcare clinic, you are on the frontlines of healthcare, connecting people with the information and resources they need, and this includes our leaders. In recent years, you have witnessed debates about healthcare systems policy on the rise within your community as well as at the local, state, and national levels. Knowing the significance of this issue for your community, you decide to put together a pamphlet for legislators to help them craft better healthcare legislation. You want your pamphlet to inform legislators about the existing U.S. healthcare system and, in order to evaluate proposed reforms and initiatives, how our system compares with the healthcare systems of other countries. Your pamphlet will include a point-by-point comparison of the U.S. healthcare system with the systems of two other countries as well as an objective analysis of how the healthcare policies of all three countries deal with two issues that are significant for your community.

 

Part I: Healthcare Systems Compared

Complete Part 1 of the Healthcare in the U.S. and Abroad template as follows:

1. Research the healthcare systems of foreign countries of your choice and select two countries whose healthcare systems differ from each other and from that of the United States; enter the names of these two countries as column headers. (Note: You may want to review the Global Health Observatory (GHO) data provided in the resources).
2. Analyze the healthcare systems of the United States as well as of the two countries that you have selected by inserting the information for each row as described on the template.
3. Use at least two credible sources and insert endnotes with APA style citations for your data.

Part II: Health Issues and Policies Compared

Complete Part 2 of the Healthcare in the U.S. and Abroad template as follows:

1. Select two health issues that are significant in your community that could be addressed by healthcare policy initiatives. (You can find these issues by interviewing health professionals in the area or by searching on healthcare databases.) Insert these two health issues into the table where indicated on the template.
   Note: If you do not live in the U.S., use the community where you intend to practice.
2. For each of the two health issues, in the appropriate row, write a 1- to 2-paragraph analysis of the scope of the health issue in the U.S.
3. For each of the two health issues, research health policy that is related to the health issue and select one policy to discuss; write the name of the policy in the designated place. Then, write a 1- to 2-paragraph analysis of the impact of the policy on the health issue.
   Note: The policy may address the health issue successfully or unsuccessfully.
4. For each of the two health issues, research the scope of the selected health issue in each of the two foreign countries you selected and, in the appropriate rows, write a 1- to 2-paragraph analysis of the scope of the health issue in each country.
5. For each of the two health issues, research health policy that is related to the health issue in each of the two foreign countries you selected and select one policy of each country to discuss; write the names of the policies in the designated places. Then, write a 3- to 5-sentence analysis of the impact of the selected policy within its country.
   Note: The policies may address the health issue successfully or fail to adequately address the health issue.
6. For each of the two health issues, write a 1- to 2-paragraph analysis comparing how the policies of the three countries prioritize stakeholders in their treatment of the issue.
7. For each of the two health issues, write a 1- to 2-paragraph analysis comparing the outcomes and impact of the policies of the three countries.
8. Use at least two scholarly sources and insert endnotes with APA style citations for your data.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bszqofMRAoo

> Conduct a use case analysis of a business collaboration tool equipped with comprehensive functionalities which might be overwhelming for the employees.

> Your analysis should highlight what would be required to increase the usability of the tool and boost collaborative productivity for new and experienced employees.

Write 6-8 APA-formatted pages and cite at least 6 peer-reviewed articles.

Q1.

1. a) Simplify the following
2. 5X+3XY-X-XY
3.   X(1-Y) – 8XY +5(X+Y)                                                 

iii.   4X2-4X+7Y2-3Y+2X2-Y2+XY            

iv.4(x/(2xy)) +(6y/2y)-((x2 y2 /(xy))

b). Write down an expression for the floor area of two rooms flat when the first room has one and a half times the width and twice the length of the second.

c). Solve the following simultaneous equations algebraically.

1. i) y=2x +5

y=3x + 1

1. ii) 2x-6= -3y

15-6y=4x

iii) 2x-8=-4y

4x+8y=16

1. d) Solve and factorize the following quadratic equations:
2. i)  x2− 3x +2 = 0
3. ii) x2+10x+25=0

iii) x2+2x+5=0

Write down all your calculations.

1. e) Solve log(x)+log(x−1) =1

(25marks)

Q2.

220. a) Suppose we know that when the output is 10 units, the cost of production is £ 120, and when the output is 60 units, the cost is £220. Find the equation relating the cost (as the dependent variable) to the number of products produced (as the independent variable).

b) The following equations give the daily demand for and supply of calculators:

Demand P = 100 – 5Q

Supply P = 10 + 4Q

For values of Q (the quantity of calculators per day) ranging from 0 to 20

calculate values for P (the price per calculator) and plot them in one 

diagram. Use the horizontal axis for Q and the vertical axis for P. Label each equation and the axes. Do these equations make economic sense?

Find the intersection of the two lines and confirm your answer algebraically. What is the significance of this point?

1. c) A company manufactures two products: Product A and Product B. The company has limited resources for labor hours and materials.

• Each unit of Product A requires 5 hours of labor and 3 units of material.
• Each unit of Product B requires 1 hour of labor and 4 units of material.
• The company has a maximum of 100 labor hours available.
• The company can use a maximum of 120 units of material.

Each unit of Product A generates a profit of $30, and each unit of Product B generates a profit of $40.

Problem: The company wants to maximize its profit while staying within the labour and material constraints.

Write the above problem using mathematical expressions.

Produce a graph with the two constraints and evaluate the profit where the two constraints intersect. 

d). A new machine is purchased for £80,000, with delivery charges £1000, and provision of foundations by the company’s own labour £4000. The machinery is estimated to have a useful economic life of five years, and a residual value of £5000. 

How would this machine appear on the balance sheet at the end of the second year of its life and at the end of year 5, using a straight-line method of depreciation? Plot a graph that shows the book value of the machine for all the five years.

(25marks)

Q3

1. a)    Find the mean and median for the following annual earning fingers (£) sample of 10 people. Sort and plot the data. What measure do you think best represents the set and why?

10500, 60000, 17000, 10500, 15000, 12000, 12500, 13500, 14000, 14500.

2017. b) The following are the earnings per share for a sample of 15 software companies for 2017.

Earnings per share £: 16.40, 12.99, 0.09, 3.18, 0.13, 0.41, 1.49, 1.20, 1.12, 0.51,10.13, 8.92, 3.5, 6.36, 7.83

1.   Find the mean and median. Compute algebraically the variance and the standard deviation. Show the formulas you used.
2.   Sort and plot the data and comment on the shape of the graph.
3. c)   Consider the following samples of earning data (000’s):

 Set1: 25, 12, 20.5, 12.50, 15, 20, 16.5, 18, 20, 15.5

Set2:  29, 15, 10.5, 21.5, 12, 13.5,  21.5, 18.5,17.5,16

 Required:

17.   The sample means in each case are £17.5 thousand per annum. Does this suggest that the data sets are similar? In what respects do the data differ?
18.   Find the two data sets’ min, max, ranges and standard deviations.

d) A retail company wants to analyze the sales revenue it generates from its different product categories. The company records daily sales revenue (in thousands of dollars) from five product categories over a month (30 days). The data below shows the frequency of daily sales revenue for one of the product categories:

Sales Revenue (in $1000s)	Frequency (Days)
0-5	4
5-10	6
10-15	8
15-20	7
20-25	3
25-30	2

 

Problem:

1. Draw a histogram for the data, representing the frequency of each sales revenue range.
2. Calculate the mean sales revenue using the midpoints of the intervals.

(25 marks)

Q4.

1. a) Accountant firm submit 3 tenders for contracts with three different multinational companies. The accounting firm consider their chances of getting the contracts are 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 respectively. What is the probability that the accounting firm will obtain,
2. One and only one contract.
3. No contracts?
4. Two contracts.

b) Each morning, a mechanic sets up a machine to make a part that must be made with precision. Experience shows that 3 days out of 4 he sets the machine up correctly. If the machine is set up correctly 90% of the parts are of the required precision. If the machine is set up incorrectly 30% of the parts are of the required precision.

Find the probability that the machine is set up correctly, given that the parts are of required precision.

8. c) When two dice are rolled, find the probability of getting a greater number on the first die than the one on the second, given that the sum should equal 8.

(25marks)

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Scenario 1: Cybersecurity Threats at SecureBank Ltd.

Background: SecureBank Ltd. is a company in the financial services industry; this institution has certain customer information that is confidential in nature, such as customers’ personal information and their bank and investment information, among others. As for now, attempts of cyber-attacks have also been noted by the bank. That is why, taking into consideration the nature of the network attacks and their possible motives, SecureBank Ltd. must research such types of attacks as well as their sources. 

Situation: Since there is a special information security department in SecureBank Ltd., they have been assigned to describe the most typical network attacks that the bank can come across, as well as possible motives for it. Such understanding will assist the team in putting necessary security measures and security strategies in place for the banks’ network security. To achieve the following goal, your manager will give you the following tasks as a member of your team. 

Tasks:

1. Explain the types and sources of network attacks.
2. Explain the motives behind network attacks.

Scenario 2: Comprehensive Network Security at GlobalTech Enterprises

Background: GlobalTech Enterprises is a technology solution provider company with branches and server centers in different parts of the globe. The company deals with numerous proprietary company information, customers’ data and a significant amount of intellectual property. One may note that GlobalTech is a highly visible company, and thus, it has attracted some of the most advanced cyber threats. Considering protecting its information technology infrastructure and avoiding disruption of its business operations, GlobalTech is to deploy secure networking solutions using hardware and software. 

Situation: The problem is rooted in the fact that the cybersecurity team of GlobalTech Enterprises has been responsible for designing and deploying a strong security framework for the network. This includes a perspective of understanding how the organizations’ hardware and software resources can be effectively used to mitigate the risks of threats in its networks, as well as defining the spectra of action needed to safeguard the network of the organization comprehensively. As a member of the cyber security team, your manager will provide you with the following responsibilities: 

Tasks:

• Explain how hardware and software can be used to minimize network security threats at GlobalTech Enterprises.
• Explain the range of actions GlobalTech Enterprises should take to minimize network security threats.

Scenario 3: Comprehensive Network Security at EduFin Corp

Background: EduFin Corp. is quite an untypical organization providing consumers with financial and educational services. The company processes huge volumes of financial data belonging to the clients, such as information related to the individuals, their transactions, investment portfolios, student records, online classes and organisational administrative work.

Considering the specifics of the company’s operations, it is possible to note that EduFin Corp. is vulnerable to cyber threats. Since the company knows it possesses a rather extensive network and since it has come to understand the fact that doing so poses a significant security threat to its network as well as being against the laws of the land, the company makes a business decision to design and implement an exemplary security plan and program a new router with enhanced security programs. 

Situation: At EduFin Corp, the task of planning and executing measures to protect the company’s network has been assigned to the IT security group. This entails supporting organisational needs, profession norms, and legal requirements. Also, the team must configure the new router to improve security standards on the network and enable a safe environment for clients and employees. This includes the installation process, where the device is configured for use, security measures are put up, and the device is compatible with the existing network. Below are the responsibilities assigned to you by the manager while working in the IT security team:

Tasks:

1. Plan and describe the procedures to secure the network in line with organizational requirements at EduFin Corp.
2. Explain the steps taken to configure a new router to improve network security at EduFin Corp.

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This aim of this unit is to provide learners with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities involved in working in a wide range of health and social care settings. The unit also provides learners with the knowledge required to understand working relationships, and how to work in partnership with others in health and social care settings.

1. Understand working relationships in health and social care settings.

1.1 Explain roles and responsibilities in health and social care settings.

1.2 Explain ways in which a working relationship is different from a personal relationship.

1.3 Explain the role of regulators and advisors within health and social care

2. Understand the importance of adhering to the agreed scope of the job role.

2.1 Explain why it is important to follow agreed ways of working. 

2.2 Describe how to access details of agreed ways of working

2.3 Explain how to contribute to quality assurance processes to promote positive experiences for individuals receiving care.

3. Understand the importance of partnership working in health and social care.

3.1 Explain the benefits of working in partnership with others in the health and social care sector.

3.2 Describe examples of best practice of health and social care services working together.

3.3 Describe ways of working that can help improve partnership working.

Scenario

You are attending an interview for a role with a local Health Care Provider. As part of the interview process you have been asked to prepare a presentation and accompanying report to show that you understand about the roles and responsibilities involved in working in a wide range of health and social care settings

Task 1 of 2 – Presentation and Report (ACs 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3)

Instructions:

The following points need to be included when preparing the presentation and report:

• Roles and responsibilities in health and social care settings.
• Ways in which a working relationship is different from a personal relationship.
• The role of regulators and advisors within health and social care.
• Why it is important to follow agreed ways of working.
• How to access details of agreed ways of working.
• How to contribute to quality assurance processes to promote positive experiences for
• individuals receiving care.

Task 2 of 2 – Interview Notes (ACs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3)

Instructions:

To be prepared for the interview, draft notes that:

• Explain the benefits of working in partnership with others in a Health and Social Care

Sector.

• Describe examples of best practice of health and social care services working together.
• Describe ways of working that can help improve partnership working.

Delivery and Submission:

• 1x Interview notes – 500 words excluding diagrams, references, and appendices. Referencing:
• You should use and cite a range of academic and reliable sources.
• A comprehensive Harvard style reference list must be included at the end of the

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