Assessment Description The purpose of this assignment is to critically think about the implications of capital planning and the aspects of operations management that need to be considered when making financial decisions. Assume that the radiology unit at Northwestern Memorial Hospital needs a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine, and you have been tasked with requesting bids. Two vendors submitted quotes based off the specs in your proposal. You anticipate the service life of this machine to be 10 years and that it should generate $600,000 per year at 50% capacity. To remove any potential for bias, your compliance department has provided the bids to you and removed the name of each company. Bid: Company A Supply and install a 3T (3 Tesla) MRI scanner. Once bid is accepted, work will be completed in 90 days. Each day after 90 days incurs a $5,000 (a day) penalty. Warranty is for 2 years. Software upgrades for 1 year. Total cost: $3,650,000 Additional warranty: $150,000 (per year to year 5) Software upgrades: $50,000 (per year up to year 5) Bid: Company B Supply and install a 3T (3 Tesla) MRI scanner. Once bid is accepted, work will be completed in 90 days. Each day after 90 days incurs a $5,000 (a day) penalty. Warranty is for 4 years. Software upgrades for 5 years. Total cost: $4,400,000 Additional warranty: $75,000 (per year to year 10) Software upgrades: $25,000 (per year up to year 10) After comparing both vendors and reviewing the “Consolidated Financial Report,” choose the bid that will enable the hospital to make the most financially sound decision. Create a PowerPoint presentation for the capital purchase to present to your vice president, explaining your choice. Address the following questions in a PowerPoint presentation of 10-12 slides (not including your title and reference slides): Why would the bid you chose be a good investment for the hospital? How will this purchase factor into the hospital’s plan for allocation of its resources? What operating costs did you take into consideration when making this decision? Explain. What facility considerations will the hospital need to make to accommodate the new MRI scanner? (Consider the location of the unit, materials, licensing requirements, etc.) What is a reasonable ROI that the hospital could expect? What are the minimum quality standards? What kind of training will need to occur? Cite a minimum of three references to support your rationale. Comprehensive speakers’ notes are required. Refer to the resource, “Creating Effective PowerPoint Presentations,” located in the Student Success Center, for additional guidance on completing this assignment in the appropriate style. While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. Essentials of Health Care Finance Cleverley, W. O., & Cleverley, J. O. (2018). Essentials of health care finance (8th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning. ISBN-13: 9781284094633

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.