You Make the Call-Situation 2

question 3

Essay

You Make the Call-Situation 2
Derek Dilworth, owner of a small manufacturing firm, is trying to rectify the firm's thin working capital situation by carefully managing payments to major suppliers. These suppliers extend credit for 30 days and customers are expected to pay within that time period. However, the suppliers do not automatically refuse subsequent orders when a payment is a few days late. Dilworth's strategy is to delay payment of most invoices for 10 to 15 days beyond the due date. Although he is not meeting the "letter of the law," he believes that the suppliers will go along with him rather than lose future sales. This practice enables Dilworth's firm to operate with sufficient inventory, avoid costly interruptions in production, and reduce the likelihood of an overdraft at the bank.

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Definitions:

Principal-Agent Problem

A dilemma in economics occurring when one party (the agent) is able to make decisions and/or take actions on behalf of, or that impact, another party (the principal).

Profit-Sharing Plans

A company program that gives employees a share in the profits of the company.

Residual Claimants

Individuals or entities entitled to a share of a company's profits after all obligations have been met.

Team Production

A production process in which employees work together under the supervision of the owner or the owner’s representative.