Dear Dad

Dear Dad
Engineering Cost Analysis
Accurately forecasting the cost of projects is vital to the survival of any business or organization.
Cost estimators develop the cost information that business owners or managers, professional design
team members, and construction contractors need to make budgetary and feasibility determinations.
From an Owner's perspective the cost estimate may be used to determine the project scope or
whether the project should proceed. According to the U.S. Department of Labor there were about
198,000 cost estimators in 1994. That of which 58% work in the construction industry, 17%
employed in manufacturing industries, and the remaining 25% elsewhere. From this we could
conclude that a great deal of cost estimation lies in ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The construction cost estimator, estimates building costs through every phase of the design and
construction process. That is why it is especially important to have the cost estimator involved from
the beginning of the project. This way, it ensures that the project budget constraint controls the
decisions made by the rest of the project team throughout the building process. Some important
personal traits that are needed to be a good cost estimator are to have good ethics, integrity,
judgment, and attitude.
Professional behavior and discipline is always expected of the cost estimator since construction
estimating tends to be highly technical. Estimators must also exercise holding good morals, because
more often than not they receive pressure from other members of the construction team to make
short–term decisions that can lead to inaccurate estimates. Resistance to this type of pressure is a
part of the estimator's job and can be beneficial to everyone in the long run. Integrity is another trait
expected upon the estimator. Another important trait is to have good judgment. This is a skill
obtained through proper training as well as extensive experience in the construction field. The
proper use of judgment could mean the difference between profit and loss for the company or client.
Estimators should approach each estimate with a professional
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Understanding the Unbiased Estimator
Terms: 1estimator, estimate (noun), parameter, bias, variance, sufficient statistics, best unbiased
estimator. The Department of Finance and Actuarial Science have recently introduced a new way to
help actuarial science students by hiring tutors. All tutors were selectively picked by the Dean of the
department based on their overall performance. Any student that faces any problem regarding
actuarial science subject can visit the tutor. The tutor room is available every Monday till Friday
8AM to 5PM. The tutor room is open to make sure that students get help for their actuarial science
subject. 2However, is it reasonable that the tutor room is open from 8AM to 5PM? How many
students will actually want to visit the tutor room at the opening hours? The answers to these
questions would help the Department of Finance and Actuarial Science to reduce its hiring expenses
by determining the number of tutor they should hire. By estimating the average number of students
who will visit the tutor room during the opening hours, we can determine whether the Department of
Finance and Actuarial Science can close down the tutor room during some specific hours so that
they can reduce the hiring expenses. Firstly, we need to identify the distribution needed for this test.
3As the numbers of students who will visit the tutor room during the opening hours are subject to
the timing students usually study and all this and would not affect one another, this random variable
is independently and

Estimating The Mixing Density Of A Mixture Distribution
Estimating the mixing density of a mixture distribution remains an interesting problem in the
statistics literature. Stochastic approximation (SA) provides a fast recursive way for numerically
maximizing a function under measurement error. Using suitably chosen weight/step–size the
stochastic approximation algorithm converges to the true solution, which can be adapted to estimate
the components of the mixing distribution from a mixture, in the form of recursively learning,
predictive recursion method. The convergence depends on a martingale construction and
convergence of related series and heavily depends on the independence of the data. The general
algorithm may not hold if dependence is present. We have proposed a novel martingale
decomposition to address the case of dependent data.
5 Measurement error model: small area estimation
We proposed [4] a novel shrinkage type estimator and derived the optimum value of the shrinkage
pa– rameter. The asymptotic value of the shrinkage coefficient depends on the Wasserstein metric
between standardized distribution of the observed variable and the variable of interest. In the
process, we also estab– lished the necessary and sufficient conditions for a recent conjecture about
the shrinkage coefficient to hold. The biggest advantage of the proposed approach is that it is
completely distribution free. This makes the estimators extremely robust and I also showed that the
estimator continues to perform well with respect to the 'best'

Advantages And Disadvantages Of E4clicks
1.0 History/Origin
Introduction:
In the current manufacturing environment, estimating can affects the economic condition of a
business. It is the basis of your profit or loss. Estimates that are huge, produce no work, because we
are underbid and hence would not gain those potential orders or sales. We may win underbid jobs,
but they do not produce the efficiency profit from which we can successfully involve a business.
Employers and engineers find it easier to justify purchase of equipment and software used on the
floor rather than estimating software. Obtaining the correct quantity of sheets, bars, or castings is
necessary. Whether we do it by using our trusty calculator, writing the numbers down, plugging
them into the shop management system ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
It helps most users to does estimating contract works for construction efficiently by giving a good
plan and accurate work throughout the contract works. "e4clicks" is well known for its "Job Order
Contracting" (JOC) and "Simplified Acquisition for Base Engineering Requirement" (SABER)
which is useful for contractors or subcontractors because of its well organized and systematic
solution or for repair works and also building renovations. "e4Clicks" gives a kick off in competing
with other estimating contract works software programs. This is one of the software that is easy to
be run with all of the government contracts, where it can run all of it in a single program. Moreover,
"e4Clicks" could also goes beyond the contract to provide users with friendly features where it also
give users to have their estimating works to be easily done. This company "e4Clicks" has been over
more than a hundred years with accumulated different types of project management, highly known
software programs development and also been working in the DOD estimating. "e4Clicks" allows
their users to outline, retain and also enhance the software for the future usage. In addition, this
software is produced the estimators its own for the users which is also

Economics and My Daily Life
Airbus Defence and Space
PARTNERING WITH PRICE® TO USE THE INNOVATIONS OF TRUEPLANNING® FOR
MORE COMPETITIVE BIDDING ON ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS
Challenge: Verify cost estimates to ensure bids are priced to win but are accurate and profitable for
each stakeholder in a project's supply chain.
Solution: Create a Cost Estimation Framework (CEF) that uses TruePlanning® top–down,
parametric estimating to set cost targets with TrueMapper® feature to cross–check estimators'
bottom–up estimates in Excel based on Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). Improve knowledge
capture by creating an historical data repository of cost models to source information for future
projects.
CASE STUDY
"PRICE provides us with more than your typical ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
As a long–time user of PRICE for estimates of hardware components – just part of entire system
bids – it was easy to discuss his broader vision with PRICE® Systems International. "PRICE
provides us with more than your typical vendor/customer relationship; we work closely together in a
real partnership," says Manuel. "When we wanted to verify cost estimates for all bid processes that
go into proposals, they listened, understood and collaborated with us on precisely what we wanted
to achieve with an integrated Cost Estimation Framework." Manuel's vision for the CEF was to not
disrupt bid processes that were already familiar and comfortable to estimation teams, but rather to
add better direction at the early stages of a project, improve data sharing, and verify bottom–up
estimates against pre–defined top–down cost targets. The CEF introduces tools and methods for
Airbus' existing estimation specialists without changing their processes. Integrating Parametric and
Bottom–Up Estimating Tools Across a project's life cycle, the CEF in effect synthesizes three
costing methods: analytic, similarity and parametric. Key tools include ProMo+ from IAES
Company for database management; QDV from Quotalys Ltd for managing analytical estimates and
versioning; and TruePlanning® from PRICE® Systems to set cost targets, map topdown parametric
estimates of Cost Element Structure to bottom–up WBS estimates in Excel, and share information
contained in

Online Learning : Stochastic Approximation
4 Online learning: Stochastic Approximation
Estimating the mixing density of a mixture distribution remains an interesting problem in the
statistics literature. Stochastic approximation (SA) provides a fast recursive way for numerically
maximizing a function under measurement error. Using suitably chosen weight/step–size the
stochastic approximation algorithm converges to the true solution, which can be adapted to estimate
the components of the mixing distribution from a mixture, in the form of recursively learning,
predictive recursion method. The convergence depends on a martingale construction and
convergence of related series and heavily depends on the independence of the data. The general
algorithm may not hold if dependence is present. We have proposed a novel martingale
decomposition to address the case of dependent data.
estimator continues to

Questions On Margin Of Error
What is margin of error?
Margin of error is a common summary of sampling error that quantifies uncertainty about survey
results. Three pieces of data are needed to express the "confidence interval," : statistic, confidence
level, and margin of error. Confidence Interval is usually stated in the following format: 95 percent
confidence intervals, or accurate 19/20 times with a margin of error of +/– 5%. This means that 19
out of 20 times it is expected that the mean of the survey result (stats) will fall within 5% above or
below the true value. There are strict parameters that determines on which survey results a Margin
of Error disclaimer can included.
MRIA sets the guidelines for reporting research in Appendix "D"
MRIA Revised ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
(b) Researchers must ensure the reliability and validity of research data as far as reasonably possible
when designing research methodologies and instruments and in the collection, processing and
analysis of research data.
Integrity of Reporting
(a) Researchers must not knowingly allow the dissemination of conclusions from a market research
project which are not adequately supported by the data. They must always be prepared to make
available the technical information necessary to assess the validity of any published findings.
(b) This entails that:
1. Researchers must recommend those techniques and methodologies which are appropriate to the
objectives of the research, avoiding those which they believe may give misleading results.
2. Researchers must not provide or allow without protest, interpretations of the research that are
inconsistent with the data.
3. Researchers must not present research results with greater confidence than the data warrants.
Instead, as responsible professionals, members must point out the relevant limitations of the
research. This includes but is not limited to the following guidelines:
i. Disclosing relevant potential sources of error, both sampling and non–sampling (e.g. response,
non–response, measurement, coverage, etc.).

ii. Being explicit about the assumptions

Network Estimation : Graphical Model
3 Network estimation: graphical model
The following projects involve network estimation problems encountered in different biological
appli– cations such as gene–gene or protein–protein interaction. The main focus has been on to
develop robust, scalable network estimation methodology.
Quantile based graph estimation
Graphical models are ubiquitous tools to describe the interdependence between variables measured
si– multaneously such as large–scale gene or protein expression data. Gaussian graphical models
(GGMs) are well–established tools for probabilistic exploration of dependence structures using
precision matrices and they are generated under a multivariate normal joint distribution. However,
they suffer from several shortcomings since ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Stochastic approximation (SA) provides a fast recursive way for numerically maximizing a function
under measurement error. Using suitably chosen weight/step–size the stochastic approximation
algorithm converges to the true solution, which can be adapted to estimate the components of the
mixing distribution from a mixture, in the form of recursively learning, predictive recursion method.
The convergence depends on a martingale construction and convergence of related series and
heavily depends on the independence. The general algorithm may not hold if dependence is present.
We have proposed a novel martingale decomposition to address the case of dependent data.
estimator continues to perform well with respect to the 'best' estimator derived

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Question 1. Question : (TCO B) Good project cost estimations are critical to a successful project.
With that in mind, compare and contrast parametric and reserve analysis as cost estimation
techniques. Please provide an example of each. Question 2. Question : (TCO A) A company intends
to establish a manufacturing facility by buying an existing factory from a company in the same
industry. A state–of–the art manufacturing line with supporting utilities will be established ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Question 3. Question : (TCO E) You are assisting on a project for your organization. An RACI has
been created for your project. Your project manager has asked you to interpret the below RACI.
Project Name: HR software design RACI
Activity PM IT HR Testers Sponsor End User
1.1.1 Code software R, A C
2.1.1 A test code R, A
3.1.1 Incorporate changes A R
4.1.1 Roll out software A R R I C
Question 4. Question : (TCO B) You are the project manager for three projects. You are about to
estimate costs for these three projects. Given the below information on each project, recommend an
appropriate estimation method and justify your answer for each. Project A: This project is new to
your company. You do not feel confident in estimating the project costs using internal resources.
There are other companies that have done this type of work. Yet you still want the most accurate
estimates possible. Project B: The work of this project has not likely been done before by anyone.
You are breaking technological barriers in this project. As such, it is imperative you get accurate cost
estimates. Project C: This project will be a scale–up of a project done last year. All the same
processes will be used. The costs for the material and other resources should be scalable based on
last year's costs.
Question 5. Question : (TCO C) The SuperFlyer Corporation is developing a revolutionary

Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Kalman Filter
The Kalman filter requires an understanding of the processes in the system that shall be observed.
Some advantages of this approach are that the method is very robust to measurement noise and does
not depend on good initial conditions (after finite time the filter will converge to the correct system
state) and by calculating the Kalman–gain and estimating the state–covariance a measure for the
confidence in the estimate is available. The downsides of the methods are that they require some
data model parameters for the specific battery. Uncertain or drifting parameters have to be accounted
for or the resulting error will increase.
Particle filter
The particle filter, like the Kalmanfilter is a system observer as well and has a similar structure. ...
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This updated capacity measure can then be used in the Coulomb counting method. As good starting
conditions are mandatory to get a good convergence initial conditions (including starting point for
state of charge estimate, initial confidence measures and model parameters) will be loaded from the
non–volatile memory of the micro–controller that will later be used. When using the algorithm in
the car it will be necessary to decide, when to safe the current states to the memory. An appropriate
situation would be for example a short period of time after the car's high–voltage system is shut
down: At this time the battery is physically disconnected from the load which means the state of
charge will not change anymore. This way no data will get lost once the control system is shut

Three Point Estimation: The Most Pessimic Estimates
B. Three Point Estimation: [16] Three–point Estimation looks at three values:  The most optimistic
estimate (O) [the best–case estimate]  A most likely estimate (M)  A pessimistic estimate (the
worst–case estimate (L)) A three point estimate is a better estimate, compared to a single point
estimate. Single point estimate simply gives you a single number – for example, [16] Manager: How
long will it take to complete the engine design? [16] Engineer: 5 days. The problem with single
point estimates is that they are seldom correct. [16] How reliable is this 5 days estimate? It will
depend on the engineer, and whether this task has been done before or not? If it is a routine task, and
has been performed many times, a single point estimate may be ok... ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
In such cases, going for a three point estimate will give you more reliability [16]. Three point
estimate looks at the most optimistic estimate (O), a most likely estimate (M), and a pessimistic
estimate (Least likely estimate) or (L).[16] In simple terms, let's take the same question, and ask the
engineer again, as follow: [16] Manager: Usually how long does it take to complete the engine
design? [16] Engineer: About 5 days. Manager: Great. And what if there were problems...
unexpected issues come up, and there are new things that we haven't thought up of arise? [16]
Engineer: Well, in that case, it might take as long as 10 days, worst case!

Cost Estimation And Cost Analysis
Cost estimation challenges can be well addressed through adopting the following set of strategic
approach. The key steps undertaken during the given process drives right cost estimation and those
actions are as follows:
 Documenting assumptions and best estimations: the assumptions can be documented in advance
and ensuring that best estimations is done using the right technique. There are various methods of
effort estimation and cost analysis however the right one should be selected on basis project
complexity and requirement. The documentation of assumptions can also help define clear scope for
the project that need to be achieved.
 Activity quantification: all process steps and their related activities need to be quantified in
advance. The quantification to be done primarily on basis of human recourse requirement, technical
requirements, and effort needed to manage project complexity and other key factors.
 Detailing out cost factors: the major cost factors for the project like labour and non–labour
elements need to be analysed in advance. The deliverable against each cost factors should be
determined while aligning other key costs like overheads, inflation should be done accordingly.
 Setting up logic between cost and activities: the logical process between the cost factors and
related activities need to be established so that right rationalizes to do cost estimation correctly.
3.2.10. Conclusive findings to manage cost worries
The key findings out of complete

Inferential Statistics in Business
In today's world, we are faced with situations everyday where Statistics can be applied. In general,
Statistics is the science of collecting, organizing, and analyzing numerical data. The techniques
involved in Statistics are important for the work of many professions, thus the proper preparation
and theoretical background of Statistics is valuable for many successful career paths. Marketing
campaigns, the realm of gambling, professional sports, the world of business and economics, the
political domain, education, and forecasting future occurrences are all areas which fundamentally
rely on the use of Statistics. Statistics is a broad subject that branches off into several categories. In
particular, Inferential Statistics contains two ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The distribution of the test statistic under the null–hypothesis is derived from the assumptions
identified previously. Common test statistics may follow the following distributions: Normal,
Student T, and Chi–Square. This distribution separates the possible values of the estimator into two
categories: values for which the null–hypothesis is accepted or rejected. The region for which we
accept the null–hypothesis is called the critical region and the area underneath the curve that
corresponds to the critical region is known as the level of confidence. Hence, we can develop a
confidence interval for which we can see the lowest and highest point of the critical region. Any
observed sample mean that lies outside of this confidence interval (outside the critical region) would
cause us to reject the null–hypothesis in favor of the alternative hypothesis. The area of the rejection
region is known as the level of significance and represents type I error (alpha) corresponding to the
probability that a true null–hypothesis is rejected (as opposed to type II error– beta; the probability
of accepting a false null–hypothesis). Essentially, hypothesis testing calls for comparing a test
statistic to the critical value of the test statistic. If this test statistic is greater than the critical value of
the test statistic, we will reject the null hypothesis in favor of the alternative hypothesis. If

The Pros And Cons Of Overconfidence Effect
1. Introduction
According to Gervais & Goldstein (2007) psychological research has repeatedly shown that persons
are inclined to be overconfident. Alpert and Raiffa (1982), described firstly a phenomenon which
they called overconfidence effect. It describes the bias in which a person's confidence in his or her
judgments is greater than the accuracy of those judgments. The common expectation is that
misestimation leads to disadvantages. In contrast, Gervais & Goldstein (2007) examined the effects
of this bias in a business context and modeled that under explicit circumstances in a firm
overconfident agents can lead to a Pareto improvement, i.e. everyone, including the firm, the biased
agent, and the unbiased agent, are better off, if an agent ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Even taking into account that some of theses effects result out of incentives from directly profiting
individuals, i.e., systematic underestimation to gain orders, the phenomenon appears to be
conspicuous. Berlin Airport BER, Elbphilharmonie, Stuttgart 21, and Jade–Weser–Port are famous
examples for overconfident estimation of construction times and costs in Germany according to
Klaiber (2015). This can be expanded to projects and products, e.g., the Airbus A380's production
problems and at the same time its below expectation market demand corresponding to Wall

Advancements Of Invasive Surgery ( Mis ) Essay
Introduction With the rise of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) methods being used in medical
operating rooms, Medical Equipment Manufacturing (MEM) sees an opportunity to be the
frontrunner in developing the manufacturing processes and licensing the technology for this
emerging market. MEM is a manufacturer of an assortment of modern medical devices. The
company sees potential in developing manufacturing processes for the technology that can place an
artificial socket with precision during hip implants. However, the expenses involved are cause for
concern. The success of the product is also not guaranteed; moreover, MEM will have to consider
the potential for competitors who may produce analogous products. Initially, it was thought that the
fixed cost of entering into this market is $55 million, whereas the variable cost of present value
revenue is $200 million. There is a 10% chance that MEM's development of this technology will be
not marketable, resulting in the loss of the fixed cost investment. Problem Statement Susan, Vice
President of Product Innovation at MEM, needs to make a choice of whether to launch the product
into the market by developing the new technology. She also needs an approximation of the total
market shared by MEM for this product, and the likely profits for MEM from following this new
technology. According to the chief production engineer, the expected cost of launching the product
($55 million) does not depict the uncertainty in manufacturing

What Is The Diffusion Synchronization Protocol
Mini Sync It's an extension of Tiny–Sync it finds the optimal solution with increas– ing complexity.
The idea is to prevent the algorithm being used by some data points has come to give strict limits
and only discards a data point if it is certain that this point will be useless.it has larger computational
and storage costs, but increased precision. F. Time–Diffusion Synchronization Protocol This
protocol proposed by Weilian Su and Ian F. Akyildiz [11] in 2005. In TDP, nodes agree on network–
wide equilibrium time and maintain clocks within a small bounded deviation from this time and
nodes structure themselves into tree–like configuration with two roles, master nodes and diffused
leader nodes. The TDP's Time Diffusion Procedure (TP) ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
Figure 7. TDP System architecture [11]. G. Scalable Lightweight Time Synchronization Protocol for
Wireless Sensor Network (SLTP) This protocol propsed by S. Nazemi Gelyan et. al [12] in 2001 and
using passive clustering and linear regression. It not only the accuracy of time synchronization in
comparison to similar algorithms is improved but also we were able to reduce the consumption of
energy in each node by decreasing the number of exchanged messages. By using linear regression
SLTP can tolerate the changes in drift under various situations. SLTP is the best fit for the following
situations: When the lifetime of the network is very important, when we need a large network to
monitor a wide area, or when our application requires medium time accuracy. SLTP works in two
phases phase one concern the configuration for static and dynamic network in which determines the
node group leader and members, phase two allows timing synchronization network after selecting
the group leader and then the network initiates the synchronization. If two nodes in the same cluster,
synchronization is done as following: Figure 8. CH1 receives the observation time of the object
from CM1 and CM2, (b) CM1 and CM2 are synchronizing their clocks [12]. If two nodes in the
same cluster want to exchange information, calculating their own α

Systems Biology and Computational Modeling
Systems biology integrates computational modelling with experimental techniques in order to better
understand the function of living organisms, the regulation of their cellular processes and how these
cells react to environmental perturbations [1]. Among the different computational approaches,
kinetic modelling gives the most detailed representation of the biological system. These models
build on the stoichiometry of the reactions, incorporating the dynamic interactions between different
components of the network. The dynamics in kinetic models are driven through ordinary differential
equations (ODEs) that represent the internal reaction mechanism as a function of species
concentration and parameters. These model parameters play a crucial role in describing the correct
dynamics of the model. However, it is only possible to measure a fraction of these kinetic
parameters in wet lab experiments due to high cost, difficulty and limitations in current techniques
or methods [2]. Therefore these parameters are indirectly determined through computational
methods from other measurement quantities, in particular the time course data of metabolite
concentrations. However, as biological models are often multi–modal it is not uncommon for
traditional parameter estimation methods to become stuck in local optima [3]. In addition, traditional
methods tend to perform badly in the presence of high measurement noise. Furthermore most of
these methods do not consider any form of model

Guidelines For The Procedure Of Preparing An Estimate For...
1.0 Introduction
1.1 This report will provide guidance for the procedure of preparing an estimate for building works.
It will include the factors that affect the overall cost of the project explaining them in general as well
as explaining them on the example provided.
1.2 The basis of an estimation is made up of three main categories. These are Labour, Materials and
Plant and together, they define the approximated final price of the project. However, these do not
include extras such as overheads, profits or preliminaries.
1.3 The example provided is a proposed new hotel located in Glencoe, Highlands. The client is Mr.
Smith and the executing architects are R&M from Edinburgh. The Bill of Quantities has already
been prepared and the price ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Opposed to that, the more detailed, complex or unique the building is going to be, the higher the
effort that is required to be put into the job and the higher the cost.
Also, a specialist might need to be hired to complete some of the complex or unique jobs, increasing
the overall cost.
2.3.1 The proposed project will face a high level of repetition as there will be a certain amount of
similar or identical hotel rooms and floors. Thus, the workers' expertise will increase with time.
However, the design
Preparing an Estimate for Building Works 03/03/2017
4
may include some unique details, so that the hotel gains a certain memorability.
2.4 It is also important, where the work is taking place, meaning the proximity of storage and
delivery of materials, how the workers get on and off site and the security. The less the labourers
have to move around site, the more work will be done. Therefore, double handling of materials or a
poor site layout should be avoided if possible. Apart from that, it is also important how and where
the site is accessible. Having few access points means more movement on site which might be
obstructing other workers.
Access restrictions should also be regarded as they hinder the productivity.
2.4.1 The project faces issues with the site location. Because the construction takes place in a remote
area, access for workers is problematic. To make matters worse, the site is only accessible through a
single track road
2.5 Health and Safety issues,

Polarization Of Political Views And Loss Of Confidence
Polarization in political views and loss of confidence in government? Introduction The main
political divisions in the United States are into two parties – the Republicans and the Democrats. A
recent (Pew Research study) [http://www.people–press.org/2014/06/12/political–polarization–in–
the–american–public/] noticed a growth in ideological consistency within the parties, with the
overlap in conservativeness and liberality shrinking between 1994 and 2014. This polarization of
political views could have many effects on the politics of the nation – both in the upcoming (2016)
presidential election and societal developments in the future. Polarization in political views, while
not bad in and of itself, can hinder the actions of the nation as the two sides staunchly bicker over
who's right instead of working together toward an actionable solution. Lack of unified national
strategy hamstrings government agencies, as goals are either not clear or a changed with each
incoming administration. For example, the National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) has
received several project mandates in the past ten years, only to find them canceled as political
renown required a different arbitrary goal. When an agency's goals are revised, much of the costs
already spent are wasted and unrecoverable. Other policies at stake are about doing anything at all.
Questions over how, if at all, to engage emerging extra–governmental threats (e.g. Islamic State),
environmental threats (climate

The Impact Of Profitability And Efficiency On Each Other
Formerly discovered, efficiency and profitability are positively correlated. Hence, when the
profitability of banks ameliorates their efficiency improve along. In contrast to Shaffnit et al. (1997),
the impact of profitability and efficiency on each other is trivial (Akmal and Saleem, 2008). Initially,
once we come across the study of banking efficiency, what usually pops into the heads is; why the
efficiency of banks matters to managers, regulators, shareholders, and consumers. The reply to the
above query is diverse for each of them as it relies on their standpoints (Kumar and Gulati, 2008).
Source: Kumar and Gulati, 2008
Figure 12: Importance of Efficient Banks from Different Viewpoints
By definition, a bank is said to be efficient if it is capable of generating more outputs like loans and
investments using lesser inputs like capital and labor expenses (Staub et al. 2010). Yue (1992) stated
that a firm is categorized as efficient in either of the two cases: if it generates equal output level
using lesser inputs or if it generates more outputs using equal or lesser inputs. And by maintaining
the control over the delivery expenses banks become further efficient (PWC, 2012). In contrast to
inefficient banks, efficient ones are more capable of contesting owing to their inferior operational
expenses (Kumar and Gulati, 2008). In general, banks that perform better than others display higher
degrees of capitalization (Tecles and Tabak, 2010). But when

Case Analysis : Project Manager And Company
1. Introduction and Case Summary
The first case study is related with the estimating problem. Barbara was assigned role as project
manager and company has a process that whenever they do receive RFP (Request for proposal) then
it is reviewed by senior management and jointly worked by proposal department. Proposal
department has estimating team that enable establishing project estimates on basis of inputs received
from functional managers. Barbara has no role to play during bidding process for new projects and
her knowledge is only used once contract is awarded to the company.
Barbara believes in review the estimates that are submitted during the proposal process. The critical
work package is to review estimate for one grade seven full time employee for twelve weeks of
period. Barbara has some background info on this task and knew that one person would be required
full time for fourteen weeks. Estimation team confirmed that they used the three point estimates
where minimum timeframe was four weeks and most likely thirteen weeks therefore being
pessimistic they put the sixteen week timeframe.
Barbara knew that three point estimate was not correct since estimations were not based on
complexity of project and only suits the need of small project. The estimation group was not
considering the complexity factor during making three point estimates. The right way to do such
calculation was to use the triangular distribution to get estimates around likelihood of occurrence.
Since

Single Neuron Character Recognition Essay
Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Character Recognition – Single Neuron WRCI 411 –
Assignment 1 RXXXXX XXXXXX – 2100XXXX August 2013 RXXXXX XXXXXX –
s2100XXXX WRCI 411 – Assignment 1 August 2013 Contents List of Figures and Tables
........................................................................................................................ 1 Figures
................................................................................................................................................. 1 Tables
.................................................................................................................................................. 1
Theory ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The output is based on a function, usually a step function or sigmoid function (basically a rounded
or differentiable step function). The neuron should output a 0 until it 'fires' when it should output a
1. This allows it to be used as a logic function. For this case the neuron should fire for only one
letter/character (and an interfered equivalent) and for all other possible cases it should not fire. The
strength of a neural network is that it can 'learn' or be 'taught' a pattern and recognise this pattern.
From this it should be able to make decisions for cases it has not seen before. There are many
methods for teaching a neuron, most relying on derivation to find the slope of the so–called weight–
space (some rely on brute–force, but these are seldom used). The basic Gradient Decent rule acts on
the slope of the weight–space and will be used for this report. Method Teaching The code was
written in m–code and implemented by MathWorks Matlab R2011a. The artificial neuron is taught
by manipulating the values of the elements in the weight matrix (W in the code) until the error in the
output matrix (from the dot product of the teaching set (X) and W) is lower than a set number
(0.005). This is achieved with a while loop. Within the while loop is another while loop which loops
another error checking loop though each of the vectors of the X matrix. The code edits each of the
elements of the W matrix by using the equation: = − η − ′ Represented in

What Do Fishermen Tell Us That Taxi Drivers Don T? An...
Critical Review：
WHAT DO FISHERMEN TELL US THAT TAXI DRIVERS DON'T? AN EMPIRICAL
INVESTIGATION OF LABOR SUPPLY
The neoclassical model of labor supply which suggests a positive relationship between working
hours and earnings has been doubted for years, because there are weak evidences in empirical
studies which mostly find insignificant or negative wage elasticities. A recent study by Stafford, T.
(2015) on Florida lobster fishermen find a supporting result to the neoclassical model of labor
supply on the basis of developing econometric methods and dealing with those issues from previous
studies. His contribution is not only on providing complete and more valid estimation of wage
elasticity, but also identifying how estimation issues affect wage elasticities and participation, which
also shed a light on re–understanding previous labour supply studies.
The primary work of Stafford, T. (2015) is to study how wage change affect lobster fishermen's
working hours and daily participation. This work is very advanced in empirical labor supply studies
because of the complete panel data it applies and the method controlling estimations issues it
applies, while most studies do not. Those concerns includes endogeneity of wage and measurement
errors, especially on observed wage and self–selection.
The dataset used in the study is the largest one by then, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission (FWC), which includes around 1000 fishermen and more than 300 days during1996–
2007

Cooperative Advertising Reserve : A Cooperative...
An excessive figure called the cooperative advertising reserve was literally recognized by Sunbeam
in the year 1996. It was mainly established to fund a part or portion of its personal retailers' costs by
running the local promotions.Anderson was supposed to have identified the increase of the amount
recorded known to 25% more than prior's year accrual amount which turns out to be an amount of
$21,800,000 dollars at least identified during the horizontal analysis of the financial statement
especially during the analytical procedures.
Looking back at GAAP, we realize they've mentioned that matching principles are not required at all
to make an estimate to all expenses incurred that are simply related to the revenues of that same
period.So, in that case we need to know that the recording of the estimation of the cooperative
advertising reserve would have been expected by the auditor ,but needs keep in mind that they need
be capable of determining the recorded estimate of the accruals or related expenses to be a
approximately close to the actual costs itself. By having the auditor fully understand the causal
factors associated with that that expense, we can test the estimate recorded by Sunbeam. Also, by
having the auditors understand the causal factor,they can be capable of determining whether those
the estimates made were appropriate under GAAP or not.
According to the excessive litigation reserve, it is more than likely that the amount of reserve and
the related expense

The Importance Of Agent Learning
Given an MDP, the total reward in future may be computed as R = r1 + r2 + .... rn
But, future rewards are uncertain and needs to be discounted to ascertain their present value as:
R = rt+1 + rt+2 + ... rt+n = rt + ɣ *rt+1 + .... + ɣ(n–t) *rn, where discount factor ɣ is in the range of
[0, 1]
The agent learning is primarily based on maximizing discounted value of all future rewards.
Owing to the uncertainty in future, estimation of this value for agent learning is not easy. A popular
approach is to use Q–learning which is described next. ii. Q–learning
Q–learning works by letting the agent to choose an action in a given state by following a particular
behaviour policy. In choosing a subsequent state, the agent evaluates alternate actions through ...
Estimation of the Q–values for the agent may be considered analogous to building the agent's brain
to gain an understanding of its environment. It may be noted that the initial estimations of maximum
value of being in a state s for action a
PAGE 19 could be completely wrong and it might take quite a large number of iterations to get these
estimations right. A proven effective way to make these estimations is the use of neural network.
The milestone in this regard was the use of Deep Q–network by Deepmind for the
AlphaGo win. Before enumerating their work, it would be good to dissect the scale of the problem
to appreciate the need for Q–learning. In the game, Deepmind captured last 4 screens of the game
from the computer monitor, resized to 84 x 84 pixels and converted to
256 gray levels. This leads to 25684 x 84 x 256 = approx. 1067970 combinations or possible game
states that outnumber the number of atoms in the universe. It is highly likely that this data when
stored is highly sparse and many of the states may never be visited. Above all, it might take ages to
converge and we would definitely want to have a finding during our good times!
This motivates the use of deep learning for Q–learning, popularly known as Deep Qlearning.
This model–free reinforcement learning approach involves executing several MDPs to learn the best
policy. It involves making state transitions to maximize future returns and discounting them to
present value to ascertain the current

The Production Of Additive Manufacturing
As the acceptance and use of Additive manufacturing methods increases so does the demand to
increase the geometric accuracy of products. The additive manufacturing process produces products
of fair geometric quality but is nowhere near as geometrically accurate as its counter part,
subtractive manufacturing. Here I review the processes of additive manufacturing that cause a
decrease in geometric accuracy. As processes that cause geometric inaccuracy are highlighted; the
additive manufacturing process comes closer to producing product that maintain a high level of
geometric accuracy.
1.Intro
Additive manufacturing (AM) methods in product development and manufacturing is projected to
grow over 300% within the next 10 years (Columbus). The increase in AM methods is a result of
AM's ability to create products with complex internal and/or external geometry in a timely and cost
effective manner (Columbus). Members of the medical field rely on AM to create models for pre–
surgery planning as well as structures inserted into patients (Petzold).
Background
AM can create complex geometries; however the process struggles to maintain geometric accuracy
of products (Ameta). Geometrically inaccurate products manufactured for use in the medical field
may subject patients to unnecessary complications that could have been avoided if geometric
tolerances were kept. Here I review, research that studied the parameters of the AM process and the
role each parameter plays in maintaining or

What Is The Concept Of Inverse Probability Of Treatment...
B. Inverse probability of treatment weighting
According to Linden et al. (2016; 2010) and Horvitz & Thompson (1952), the concept of inverse
probability weighting begun in survey works many years ago to adjust for imbalances in sampling
pools and continues to be regularly applied in complex survey designs. Several works have been
done over the years by researchers to extend this concept to the studies of treatment effects
estimation in quasi–experimental designs (Robins & Rotnitzky, 1995; Rosenbaum, 1987); where
weighting estimators are used to model the IPTW. From the sample counterpart of Equation (5), the
estimator for the average treatment effect according to Linden et al. (2016; 2010) is specified as: , ...
Another limitation of IPTW according to Linden (2015) and Kurth et al. (2006) is that the IPTW
framework can perform badly when there is extremely large weights for a few individuals. This
leads to an imprecise treatment effect estimates due to large standard errors.
C. Marginal mean weighting through stratification
The marginal mean weighting through stratification (MMWS) is a more recent approach developed
to handle multivalued treatment analysis. It works by combining elements of both propensity score
stratification and IPTW (Linden, 2014; Hong, 2012; Linden et al., 2010). It works by first stratifying
the analytic sample into quantiles of the generalized propensity score, and secondly, generating a
weight for each individual based on their corresponding stratum and treatment assignment (Linden,
2015; 2014). The stratification process is meant to reduce bias in the observed covariates used to
create the propensity score (Rosenbaum & Rubin, 1984), whilst the weighting processes
standardizes each treatment group to the target population (Linden, 2014). In the multivalued
treatment situation (Linden, 2014; 2015), the MMWS approach is initiated as follows: first, the GPS
is estimated either by an ordered or multinomial response models. Next, each GPS is then stratified
into equal sized quantile categories. It is worth noting that stratification is based on the estimated
probability of the base

Indianapolis: Activity-Based Costing of City Services
Indianapolis: Activity–Based Costing of City Services
1– Yes, government should perform a cost analysis before privatization, especially if the government
will remain as a participant in the bidding process. The cost analysis will provide the government
with cost information for accurately pricing the bid. In case the government is not going to be a
participant in the bidding process, the cost estimate will provide the government with an estimate on
how much to pay for a service. For example, if the government wants to engage in a firm fixed price
contract, a cost analysis will provide an accurate estimate of the cost and government can adjust the
estimate for labor contractor rates and profit to price the contract.
2– For pothole ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
ABC estimate sharing provided an additional benefit as a buy–in from the employees and the union.
As the employees and the ABC estimators worked together to generate the estimates, they realized
the data was showing the problems that they did not anticipate such has the high supervisor ratio.
They recognized that ABC will be very essential for them to lower their costs and become
competitive. The employees needed to be competitive with the private sector to keep their jobs.
4– We will assume that the "Indirect Cost Pool" includes supervisor's expenses (which should be
reduced by 50%) and overhead costs. In this case the bids for Northwest and Northeast quadrants
are calculated in Exhibit B. Comparing with the actual pothole filing costs per ton in January–
March, we could clearly see a dramatic decrease of indirect costs and rolling stock costs. Overall the
bid for both quadrants is by far more competitive than it would have been without the ABC analysis
and cost reduction.
5– If the administration continues to outsource city services through competitive bidding and
assuming the private sector is able to aggressively under bid the city, the administration will have to
dismiss the idle workforce, selloff unused fixed assets and update the ABC estimates accordingly.
As the number of outsourced contracts grows in count and size, the administration will also need to
enhance its contracting and performance

Sins of Estimation
10 Deadly Sins of Software Estimation
Steve McConnell
© 2002 Construx Software Builders, Inc. All Rights Reserved. www.construx.com
D e l e ring Softw are P e ct Succe ss iv roj
Construx
®
Background
Estimation Book v Construx Estimate™ v Construx' Training s v Construx' Consulting s v
www.construx.com
2
consulting u training u software projects u construx.com
Art and Science of Software Estimation
Science of estimation is well–developed and well–supported by software tools v Art of estimation
relies on rules of thumb and still needs some work v 3
Almost–Deadly Sins of Software Estimation Sins #20–#11
Sin #20
Estimating how long "it" ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
are developers tend to be introverts and relatively young v Marketing and sales personnel tend to be
more extroverted and organizationally senior to the developers they negotiate with v 21

Sin #3 Committing to Estimates Too Early in the Cone of Uncertainty
The Cone of Uncertainty
Project cost (effort and size) 4x Project schedule
Most estimates are created here
2x 1.5x 1.25x 1.0x 0.8x 0.67x 0.5x
Good estimates aren' t possible until here
1.6x
1.25x 1.15x 1.1x 1.0x 0.9x 0.85x 0.8x
0.25x
0.6x
Time
23
Plan to Revise Estimates Throughout the Project
Project cost (effort and size) 4x Project schedule 1.6x
2x 1.5x 1.25x 1.0x 0.8x 0.67x 0.5x
1.25x 1.15x 1.1x 1.0x 0.9x 0.85x 0.8x
0.25x
0.6x
Suitable only as estimates
Suitable as estimates Time and commitments
24
Sin #4 Assuming Underestimation has No Impact on Project Results
Effect of Estimation Accuracy

Non–linear impact due to planning errors, upstream defects, high–risk practices
Cost Effort Schedule
Linear impact due to Parkinson' Law s
Underestimation
Overestimation
< 100%
100%
>100%
Target as a Percentage of Nominal Estimate
26
Sin #5 Estimating in the "Impossible Zone"
Puzzle
Suppose

Essay on Week 3 Quiz
Question 1. Question : (TCO B) Good project cost estimations are critical to a successful project.
With that in mind, compare and contrast parametric estimating and vendor bid analysis as cost
estimation techniques on a project. Please provide an example of each. Instructor Explanation: Both
are project estimating tools. Parametric estimating looks at a cost per some metric, such as cost per
square foot. Vendor bid analysis evaluates responses to RFP bids to determine the cost estimations
for the project. This technique is typically used on projects in which the buyer does not have the
time or expertise to determine cost and duration estimates on the project. Students must provide an
estimate of each. Question 2. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Instructor Explanation: WBS Code / Activity 0.0 Environmental clean–up project 1.0 or 1.1 Design
1.1 or 1.1.1 Alternative evaluation 1.2 or 1.1.2 Conceptual design 1.3 or 1.1.3 Pilot test 1.4 or 1.1.4
Final design 2.0 or 1.2 Subcontracting 2.1 or 1.2.1 Specifications 2.3 or 1.2.3 Contractor selection
2.4 or 1.2.4 Contract execution 3.0 or 1.3 Installation 3.1 or 1.3.1 Recovery well 3.2 or 1.3.2 Piping
3.3 or 1.3.3 Treatment equipment 3.4 or 1.3.4 Start–up 4.0 or 1.4 Performance monitoring 4.1 or
1.4.1 Discharge sampling 4.2 or 1.4.2 Monitoring well sampling WBS numbering on the left is
traditional. Numbering the right is MS Project WBS numbering. The students can use either system.
Question 3. Question : (TCO E) You are assisting on a project for your organization. An RACI has
been created for your project. Your project manager has asked you to interpret the below RACI.
Project Name: New marketing campaign RACI Activity PM IT Market Test Group Marketing
Sponsor Account Manager 1.1.1 Create new layout A R R C 2.1.1 Design campaign A R 3.1.1 Test
market R A 4.1.1 Roll out campaign R I A Instructor Explanation: For activity 1.1.1: Marketing and
IT are to do the work, and the PM is accountable for the results. The account manager is to be
consulted. For activity 2.1.1: Marketing is to do the work and the PM is

Econometrics
Applied Econometrics BE5103
Tutorial 1
Q1 a) In the simple OLS regression estimation it is not possible that all actual independent Yi values
lie above the estimated regression line. This is because OLS minimizes SUM ê2 , the residual , ê, is
the difference between the actual Yi and the predicted Yi and has zero mean. In other words, OLS
calculates the slope coefficient so that the difference between the predicted Yi and actual Yi is
minimized.
The OLS estimates of the βs: Are unbiased – the βs are centred around the true population values of
βs Have minimum variance – the distribution of the β estimates around the true βs are as tight as
possible Are consistent – as the sample size(n) approaches infinity, the estimated βs ... Show more
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The closer that R2 is to 1, the better the fit meaning the group of independent variable could explain
better what happens to the dependent variable. R2 may not be the best estimate at times because if
we add another independent variable to the model the R2 would increase but it does not say
necessary the model becomes better. Therefore some would prefer to look at the adjusted R2 as it
would only increase if the variable used are relevant to the model. Addition of independent variable
to the model would not result in an increase in adjusted R2 if the variables does not improve the
model.
We can then look at the T–Statistics to see how individual variable can explain the dependent
variable, by doing a T–test comparing it with the Critical value T. By doing a 10%,5% or 1% test.
We could also look at the model as a whole by looking at the F–Statistics and doing a F–test.
With Eviews regression we can simply look at the P–Values to see at which level of confidence we
can reject the Hypothesis, From the above 3models, it seems that R2 is highest in model 3, and the
adjusted R2 is also the highest in the model which tells us that the independent variable are better in
explaining the dependent variable. Model 3 is a better regression model. Income per person is a
better independent variable rather than income and population as a variable. Again this goes in line
with economic theory, as income per person increases it would result increase

Assignment 1 Essay
Spartan billing department is a department that processes and bills invoices to customers. In current
process, a supervisor audits around 10% billing account. Commercial accounts with special
contracts will be handled through another process. For other accounts, the department just bills in
regular process and no special process is required. The current process contains necessary steps but
runs inefficiently. As an administrator of Spartan billing department, I will investigate the current
process and modify the process to improve process efficiency. By evaluating the current process, we
can see the wait time for registering AR and financial is as long as 13.3 minutes. The wait time for
the process of verifying bills is also longer than ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
We can see from the table above that under the case of "change resource", the wait time remained
the same compared to case two. The total cost of normal bill and contract bill were increased a little
bit. However, the total cost was much higher than previous cases and reached 27537. The reason for
the total cost increase was that we increased skilled labor cost. The output of the bills was the same
when compared to case two. Compared to base case, case three was more efficient, as it improved
the output of bills and reduces the wait time. However, compared to case two, it seems only
increased the total cost and reduced the efficiency of process. The third one I changed is to increase
the arrival rate. As Spartan billing department will expand businesses to two regions, it will cause
increases in both normal and commercial bills. We have to increase the arrival rate and try to
simulate this demand. I adjusted the normal bills arrival rate to 4 minutes and the contract bills
arrival rate to 12 minutes. There were significant changes in the wait time of registering AR and
financial and number of bills coming out. The wait time of registering AR and financial climbed up
to 20.93 minutes and it was even longer than the base case. The number of output bills was also the
highest in the four cases and reached 10716. It seems that case four is efficient because output bills
are increased. But actually, the increase is due to the increase of arrival rate. This case still had

Ols Regression Estimates That The Return Of Schooling
OLS regression estimates that the return to schooling is 9.06% for men and 10.62% for women. The
first stage results, reported in the second column of Table1, indicate that the RoSLA to 16 in the UK
increased the average number of years of education by 0.12 for men and 0.74 for women. Our
second stage IV shows that an additional year of education increases returns to the log of wages of
13.21% and 22.39% for men and women respectively. Once again, our IV estimates are higher than
OLS which could be to a few reasons such as measurement error, causing OLS to suffer downward
bias, and LATE. In the case of both men and women there are many observable factors such as
ability and skills on the impact of the years of schooling which can also affect the individual's
earnings. Moreover, IV captures the average return of an extra year of education induced of the
compliers between the two reforms, while OLS captures average return across all people and all
years. IV is thus higher due to higher marginal return to education at relatively low education level.
Whilst I didn't run regressions for the effects of the first reform on women, previous literature has
shown that women typically had returns of around 8.3% (OLS) and 9.3% (IV) from the first reform
(Dearden, 1998). From my results, it is evident that women experience significantly greater returns
to education from the second reform than men did in both the first and second reforms. Men actually
experience a decline in the returns

KPMG Deferred Tax Issues
KPMG Deferred Tax Issues: Valuation Allowance
Issue 1: Conclude on the appropriateness of the engagement team's decision for valuation allowance.
1. Clarify Issues & Objectives
ASC 740–10–05–5 defines a deferred tax asset as:
A deferred tax asset is measured using the applicable enacted tax rate and provisions of the enacted
tax law. A deferred tax asset is reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of evidence
available, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be
realized.
ASC 740–10–05–5 also states the following:
There are two basic principles related to accounting for income taxes, each of which considers
uncertainty through the application of recognition and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Thus, a 5% increase in profit margin is not indicative of Riggers' historical data and is not a
conservative estimate.
Riggers also projects 100% rig efficiency, which assumes the rig will endure absolutely no issues,
repairs, or maintenance for the next ten years. This assumption seems highly unlikely. A more
conservative assumption would take into account the inevitable off–days of the rig and thereby
reduce the rig efficiency projection slightly.
Additionally, the engagement team's assessment of valuation allowance is based on the assumption
that the Brazil segment of operations will cease or lose profitability after the fiscal year 2021. If,
instead, we assume operations in Brazil will continue and remain profitable until further notice, the
deferred asset will eventually be used to its entirety and no valuation allowance should be
recognized. However, if the given assumption of ceased operations in 2021 stands, a more fair and
conservative representation requires an adjustment for valuation allocation.
Given the slightly optimistic nature of the assumptions surrounding profit margin and rig efficiency,
reducing both percentage values would provide more conservative estimates. If profit margin and rig
efficiency were reduced to 11% and 98%, respectively, a valuation allowance of approximately

Designing A Three Level Multilevel Model
Model
This section is divided into several parts. The parameter estimates are shown in Table XX along
with relevant model statistics. As the study makes use of a three–level multilevel model, a two–level
null model with individuals nested within region–years is presented first to determine whether a
three–level model is a better choice. Next, the simple model with only the parameters of interest
added will be interpreted. A full model including all relevant variables, including a decomposition of
the main variable of interest ('important to understand different people'), concludes the model
selection process.
Two–level null model
The simple two–level null model with individuals nested within regions is defined as follows (using
notation in accordance with Rabe–Hesketh and Skrondal (2004)): trstep_ij=η_0j+ϵ_ij where
η_0j=γ_00+ζ_0j
Here, ϵ_ij are the level–1 residual terms, γ_00 is the mean intercept and ζ_0j is the deviation of the
school–specific intercept from the mean. As with most multilevel models, it is assumed that the
clusters j are independent. Furthermore the level–1 residuals are assumed to be normally distributed
with mean 0 and variance Var(e_ij) , while the level–2 residual are assumed to be normally
distributed with mean 0 and variance Var(ζ_0j). (ADD THE THIRD ASSUMPTION?).
The two–level model estimates the mean trust in the EP to be 4.46. An likelihood ratio test between
the two–level null model and a single–level null models (LR test statistic = 4065 with

The Myers Briggs Analysis And Collectivism
According to my results of the Myers Briggs analysis and collectivism survey I am very loyal to a
group. This could be considered a weakness in the sense that I do not think of myself first. This
could allow me to do harm to myself to help others which in a sense could nativity affect my
development as a leader and allow others to walk over me. Another weakness presented by the VIA
was my humility and arrogance. The article "When Followers Become Toxic"(2004) presented in
week 3's readings states that "Those who already think highly of themselves are most susceptible to
flattery's charms. In particular, leaders predisposed toward narcissism may find their narcissistic
tendencies pushed to unhealthy levels when they are given heavy doses of follower ingratiation."
(Offermann, 2004, Page 57) We also discussed this idea of follower influence in the final week of
the course, according to the presentation from class some essential qualities of good followers are
that they posses courage, honesty, and credibility. These good followers would help this weakness
not be such an issue. The final lowest scoring strength within the VIA model was my ability to
forgive. That is when someone has done wrong to me I am not willing to accept them for a second
chance. This is a weakness because I believe it relates negatively to the Big Five Traits with job
satisfaction, specifically Agreeableness. Research has found that "agreeableness was positively
related to life satisfaction... assuming

Disadvantages Of Completely Randomized Design
The treatments that are assigned completely at random so that each experimental unit has the same
chance of receiving any one treatment is known as, a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). It is
assumed that all experimental units are uniform. Any difference among experimental units receiving
the same treatment in the CRD is considered as experimental error. Thus, Completely Randomized
Design is suitable just for the tests involving homogeneous experimental units, for example, lab
research, where ecological effects are generally easy to control. The CRD is the simplest of all
designs. The replications of treatments are assigned completely at random to independent
experimental subjects. It is equivalent to a t–test when only two treatments are ... Show more
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If experimental error is heterogeneous, valid comparisons can still be made.
However there are also few disadvantages of Completely Randomized Block Designs, which are
1. It is not suitable for big number of treatments because blocks become too big.
2. It is not suitable when complete block contains considerable variability.
3. Error df is smaller than that for the CRD (problem with a small number of treatments).
4. If there is a large variation between experimental units within a block, a large error term may
result (this may be due to too many treatments), as interactions between treatment and block effects
increase error.
5. If there are missing data, a CRBD experiment may be less efficient than a CRD
Appropriate use of Completely Randomized Block Designs
It is suitable to use it when there is a known or suspected source of variation in one direction.
Orientation of the blocks to have minimum variation within the block and orientation plots to
sample the entire range of variation within the block.
The CRBD is one of the most widely used designs. If it will control the variation in a particular
experiment, there is no need to use a more complex design. The most important item to consider
when choosing a design is the uniformity of the experimental

Audit Case
1. CAS 540 listed the following requirements related to auditing accounting estimates:
When performing risk assessment procedures and related activities to obtain an understanding of the
client and its environment, the auditor shall obtain an understanding of the following:
The requirements of the applicable financial reporting framework relevant to accounting estimates,
including related disclosures
How management identifies those transactions, events and conditions that may give rise to the need
for accounting estimates to be recognized or disclosed in the financial statements. And the auditor
shall make inquiries of management regarding changes in circumstances that may give risk or new
or the need to revise existing, accounting ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Whether the significant assumptions used by management are reasonable.
Where relevant to the reasonableness of the significant assumptions used by management or the
appropriate application of the applicable financial reporting framework, management's intent to
carry out specific courses of action and its ability to do so.
If, in the auditor's judgment, management has not adequately addressed the effects of estimation
uncertainty on the accounting estimates that give rise to significant risks, the auditor shall, if
considered necessary, develop a range with which to evaluate the reasonableness of the accounting
estimate.
Recognition and Measurement Criteria: the auditor shall obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence
about whether management's decision to recognize, or to not recognize, the accounting estimates in
the financial statements; and the selected measurement basis for the accounting estimates, are in
accordance with the requirements of the applicable financial reporting framework.
Evaluating the Reasonableness of the Accounting Estimates, and Determining Misstatements: the
auditor shall evaluate, based on the audit evidence, whether the accounting estimates in the financial
statements are either

Main Sources Of Cost Data
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF COST DATA
We are requested to assist the building with creating a method of construction cost data for client
throughout the pre contract. The task of data collection is a difficult procedure and can be include to
wide variations. Based upon our experience as quantity surveyors we chose to develop a cost data
collection method. Our define construction line items and quantities for relativity building types.
The method that provides the best opportunity for cost data collection was noted as the Bills of
Quantity method. This method appears to have advantages over the other methods but yet even with
the Bills of Quantity method some potential pitfalls exist.
A Bill of Quantity is basically a listing by trade of certain construction components that make up the
total project. The project may be a building. The Bill of Quantity documents quantities for each
element of the building type such as cubic meters of concrete foundations or square meters of
roofing material. Bill of Quantity is used frequently to assist in developing tenders or bids for
projects. The Bill of Quantity will be provided by the quantity surveyor. Once the quantity of
concrete footing is known a unit price to cover for material, labor and equipment is applied to
develop the cost of each line item or component. The total project is basically include of all the
individual line items.
A Modified Approach
In our approach, we have attempted

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