Paper 2 0 M
Paper 2 0 M
Paper 2 0 M
MARKSCHEME
November 2002
Higher Level
Paper 2
21 pages
http://www.xtremepapers.net
–3– N02/370/H(2)M+
Allocate [1 mark] for a correct answer and clear calculations up to [3 marks]. Do not
double penalise for mistakes carried forward.
For a company that is primarily a manufacturing operation, its liquidity ratios – current
assets and acid test are quite impressive. An acid test of 0.8 or even less should not be a
concern as there is a fast turnover of finished goods – although the number of days it
takes to sell the stock have increased. Profit, probably from the sale of businesses, has
supported the fall in sales. Consequently, retained profit is considerably higher.
Despite a fall in asset turnover and Return on Net Assets, the company increased its
profit margin. Still, some attempt should be made to improve efficiency. EPS, dividend
cover, and interest cover – all improve considerably and are rather impressive.
However, DPS increased marginally. Shareholders might be unsatisfied but are unlikely
to sell their shares. Gearing has improved.
However, for full analysis “industry norm” has to be referred to as well as looking at
Cadbury-Schweppes’ performance over a longer period of time.
–4– N02/370/H(2)M+
[5 to 6 marks]
For a meaningful analysis of at least two relevant ratios from the various categories.
The candidate explains the meaning and the significance of the various ratios and
analyses the performance of Cadbury-Schweppes.
[3 to 4 marks]
For a relevant analysis of some ratios.
The candidate explains the meaning and the significance of various ratios but might not
refer to all types requested in the question. Limited analysis is provided.
[1 to 2 marks]
For a very superficial description of some ratios.
[3 marks]
For a clear explanation of at least two factors.
[1 to 2 marks]
For an explanation of one factor or for a list with out explanation [1 mark].
–5– N02/370/H(2)M+
[7 marks]
For an account and evaluation of at least five relevant reasons for Cadbury-Schweppes’
growth using concepts in a clear and logical manner.
[5 to 6 marks]
For an account and evaluation of at least three relevant reasons for Cadbury-Schweppes’
growth using concepts in a clear and logical manner.
[3 to 4 marks]
For an account of less than three reasons with limited use of concepts. No evaluation.
[1 to 2 marks]
For a descriptive, short answer.
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2. (a) (i) What is meant by the term “an ethical and socially
responsible company”? [2 marks]
[2 marks]
For a full definition and explanation that explains the word “ethical” and “social
responsibility”.
[1 mark]
For a rather vague definition which does not necessarily relate to the two concepts.
[3 marks]
For an explanation of three drivers in the external environment and an explanation
of the specific issue(s) of each relevant driver / group.
[2 marks]
For an explanation of two drivers in the external environment and an explanation
of the specific issue(s) of each relevant driver / group.
[1 mark]
For an explanation of one driver in the external environment and an explanation of
the specific issue(s) of the relevant driver / group. For a list without explanation.
–7– N02/370/H(2)M+
(i) Suggest and explain three ways in which Boots The Chemists
can responsibly manage the physical environment. [3 marks]
[3 marks]
For three coherent suggestions. Each method is fully explained.
[2 marks]
For less than three coherent suggestions. Each method is fully explained.
[1 mark]
One suggestion and explanation or a list of suggestions.
(ii) Assess two costs and two benefits to Boots The Chemists that
result from your suggestions in (b)(i). [4 marks]
[4 marks]
For an assessment of two potential costs and two potential benefits. The
assessment relates to question (b)(i).
[2 to 3 marks]
For an assessment of less than two potential costs and less than two potential
benefits. The assessment relates to question (b)(i).
[1 mark]
For a short list of some costs and/or benefits which does not necessarily relate to
question (b)(i).
(c) Boots the Chemists insists that their Far East suppliers offer
competitive terms and conditions of employment. Evaluate
payment and incentive systems to encourage and reward higher
productivity and recommend the most suitable system, or systems,
to put into practice in the Far East. [7 marks]
We know from the text that Boots The Chemists insists that conditions of employment
for Far East workers need to meet above average pay scales and competitive working
conditions, There is a range of payment and incentive schemes that would motivate
employees and are linked to productivity, e.g.
All of these could improve motivation and therefore production, whilst satisfying Boots’
requirements. PRP demands individual appraisal and may not be suitable for a production
line, where individual performance may be affected by the performance of others.
Piecework may put an overemphasis on output quantity rather than quality and may
produce a “sweatshop” atmosphere. Overtime payments may well encourage extra, longer
hours, but this does not necessarily improve productivity. The workforce, being in a
low wage economy, may already be working long hours and so terms of employment
may become unacceptable.
Newer schemes like profit sharing and share ownership schemes would enhance the
employees’ sense of belonging and ownership, but may not fit in with the prevailing
national culture, nor fit the legal structure of possibly small firms. For instance, these
manufacturers may be partnerships without shares.
[6 to 7 marks]
Suitable payment and incentive schemes are evaluated against the need to provide
competitive terms and conditions and schemes are recommended which clearly link
reward to performance and are appropriate for Far East manufacturers.
[3 to 5 marks]
Suitable payment and incentive schemes are discussed and there is some attempt to link
these to the needs of the Far East manufacturers. A recommendation, although possibly
limited in nature, is required to achieve [5 marks].
[1 to 2 marks]
There are descriptions or a description of an incentive or payment scheme. The answer
is primarily descriptive and possibly simplistic.
– 10 – N02/370/H(2)M+
(ii) Suggest two reasons why L’Oreal chose to enter the Chinese
market. [2 marks]
[2 marks]
For identification and clear suggestions of two relevant reasons.
[1 mark]
For identification of one reason.
(b) Prepare a product position map for L’Oreal in China and identify a
potential market opportunity. [5 marks]
Positioning map – the location of a product relative to others in the same market place:
Any two relevant attributes can be chosen e.g. price / quality, price / image /
performance.
Possible to develop more of a mass market, lower price / medium price, medium image/
performance / value.
Or possibly low price / low quality under a different name so as not to dilute the current
brand image.
– 11 – N02/370/H(2)M+
[5 marks]
For an accurate positioning map and substantiated identification of potential market
opportunities in the Chinese market.
[3 to 4 marks]
For a largely accurate positioning map and relevant identification of potential market
opportunities in the Chinese market.
[1 to 2 marks]
For an inaccurate positioning map, or no map at all. Limited or no identification of
market opportunities.
(c) Use relevant marketing concepts / theories to discuss and analyse the
reasons for L’Oreal’s success in the Chinese market. [8 marks]
[7 to 8 marks]
Relevant evidence of success, and correct identification of a strategy(s). Meaningful
analysis and discussion which has made extensive use of the subject concepts and
theories. Clear application of theories and concepts to the case study.
[5 to 6 marks]
Some relevant evidence of success. Some analysis / discussion which has made use of
subject theories / concepts. Minor mistakes and omissions may have been made.
Largely appropriate application of theories and concepts to the case study.
– 12 – N02/370/H(2)M+
[3 to 4 marks]
Reasonable discussion which may be descriptive at times. Some mistakes may have
been made and/or significant omissions. Application to the case study may not always
be appropriate.
[1 to 2 marks]
Descriptive answer with limited use of marketing terminology.
(d) Explain two costs and two benefits for Chinese citizens of a MNC
operating in their country. [4 marks]
Possible benefits:
y increased competition – choice, quality, cater for customers needs / tastes;
y increase in employment;
y transfer of technology / improved infrastructure;
y any other relevant benefits.
Possible costs:
y increased competition – effects on local producers / unemployment;
y socially irresponsible firms;
y effects on culture, tradition, way of life;
y profits going overseas;
y any other relevant cost.
[4 marks]
For an explanation of two possible costs and two possible benefits.
[2 to 3 marks]
For identification of two possible costs / benefits and the provision of a limited
explanation.
[1 mark]
For a limited list.
With the application of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the reasons why employees in
Top-taste fear change include:
y physical needs – unemployment, loss of earnings, home, rest period;
y security needs – lack of necessary skills, loss of job;
y belonging needs – moved away from one’s family group / friends;
y esteem needs – loss of position, power, responsibility – especially for middle
managers, feeling incompetent with the new technology;
y self-actualisation – reduced promotion opportunities, inability to cope with the new
technological challenge, managers from the other company may eventually replace
top jobholders.
The above can result in low morale and a lack of motivation. This consequently affects
productivity, costs and possibly sales and profit.
[6 marks]
Explanation of the various needs in an appropriate order, correct application of relevant
information to Maslow’s Hierarchy and some discussion of the effect on motivation and
consideration of the fears of employees.
[4 to 5 marks]
Explanation of the various needs, correct application of relevant information to
Maslow’s Hierarchy and a limited discussion of the effect on motivation and consider
the fears of employees.
[2 to 3 marks]
Description of the various needs and some minimal attempts to apply information and to
discuss employees’ fear.
[1 mark]
Vague, extremely superficial answer that makes some minimal attempt to list Maslow’s
Hierarchy of Needs.
[5 marks]
For a discussion of three possible types of resistance and for a clear assessment of their
specific effects on the organization.
[3 to 4 marks]
For a simple description of three possible types of resistance without an assessment of
their effects or a description of fewer than three types of resistance with some
assessment.
[1 to 2 marks]
For a superficial response with no assessment of the effects on the organization.
[2 marks]
For a report format, which includes: to, from, date, title, introduction, analysis,
conclusions and recommendations. One element may be missing without marks being
deducted.
[1 mark]
For a report format where more than one element may be missing.
Possible suggestions:
y avoid one sided top-down approach;
y try to predict and plan for change as far ahead as possible;
y be proactive rather than reactive;
y inform people in a variety of ways as soon as possible;
y encourage queries and challenges from employees;
y encourage consultation and participation in various ways: working groups, open
meetings, group meetings, discussion groups etc.;
y provide clarity, reassurance and support as much as possible regarding the possible
negative effects of the change - such as redundancies, demotion etc.;
y emphasise the positive effects of the proposed change;
y provide training when possible;
y any other relevant suggestion.
The above suggestions can also be looked upon as addressing the lower as well as the
higher levels of needs.
The factors above should result in improved motivation, efficiency and profit.
– 15 – N02/370/H(2)M+
[6 to 7 marks]
For relevant suggestions (at least four) introduced and evaluated in a coherent manner.
[3 to 5 marks]
For at least three relevant suggestions. Evaluation is not always correct.
[1 to 2 marks]
For limited suggestions without evaluation.
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5. (a) Draw the network and calculate both the earliest starting time and
the latest finishing time. Identify the critical path on the network. [8 marks]
A
6
20
J2
8 G 18 K 11
3 9 5
11 20
D
4
B F +2 J
0 4 4 14 18 7 31 L 4 35
1 // 2 6 8 // 9
0 4 23 31 35
E7
//
//
C 11 H 12 23 I 8
5 4 // 7
11 23
Key:
Activity est
node number
Critical Path B–E–H–I–L Duration lft
[8 marks]
For a completely accurate, clearly presented critical path diagram showing all EST,
LFT; the critical path is labelled and keyed.
[5 to 7 marks]
For a diagram with one or two errors which is well presented, labelled and keyed
[3 to 4 marks]
For a diagram, which contains a few mistakes and/or may not be fully labelled or keyed.
[1 to 2 marks]
For a poor, largely inaccurate presentation.
– 17 – N02/370/H(2)M+
activity F 2 days
activity K 2 days
Floats
TF FF
A 5 2
B 0 0
C 6 6
D 3 0
E 0 0
F 5 0
G 3 1
H 0 0
I 0 0
J 6 6
K 2 2
L 0 0
Delay activity C by five days will not affect duration or any other activity - both floats are 6.
If F and K are delayed by two days, duration increases by 2. Critical path remains the
same.
[4 marks]
For accurate calculations of TF, FF and correct application to the critical path
[2 to 3 marks]
For largely accurate calculations and a reasonable attempt to apply them to the critical
path. Explanation regarding the strategy is provided.
[1 mark]
For vague, largely inaccurate calculations. The candidate does not explain whether this
strategy is appropriate.
– 18 – N02/370/H(2)M+
[4 marks]
For a discussion of two advantages.
[2 to 3 marks]
For an identification of two advantages but discussion was not included. For an
identification and discussion of one advantage
[1 mark]
For an identification of one advantage.
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6. (a) Construct a decision tree and select the most desirable option for
expansion of Mr Yin’s business on financial grounds. Show all
your working. [8 marks]
Expected
Economy Probability return $m
Improve
20% 4.6
EU expansion Unchanged
$ 0.42m
A
option
$ 2m 50% 2.4
Worsen
30% 1
$ 0.3m Improve
20% 5
US expansion Unchanged
//
B 50% 3
$ 1.75m Worsen
Ch 30% (-1.5)
$0 in
.12 // a Improve
5m No change 20% 1
Unchanged
//
$0 C 50% 0.5
.5 Worsen
m 30% (-0.5)
Improved Improve
20% 2
product range Unchanged
D 50% 1
//
$ 0.5m Worsen
30% 0.75
Key:
decision point
changing node
//
rejected options
Calculations
Option 1: $ 4.6m % 0.2 = $ 0.92m
$ 2.4m % 0.5 = $ 1.2m
$ 1m % 0.3 = $ 0.3m
$ 2.42m – $ 2m (costs) = $ 0.42m h net
expected value
* the most profitable options
Option 3:
* without change to product range:
$ 1m % 0.2 = 0.2
$ 0.5m % 0.5 = 0.25
$ (0.5m) % 0.3 = (0.15)
$ 0.3 m – $ 0.5m (costs) = ($ 0.2m)
– 20 – N02/370/H(2)M+
Option 4:
* with a change to product range:
$ 2m % 0.2 = $ 0.4m
$ 0.5m % 0.5 = $ 0.5m
$ (0.5m) % 0.3 = $ 0.225m
$ 1.125m – $ 1m = $ 0.125m
[7 to 8 marks]
For an accurate decision-tree which is appropriately labelled and includes workings that
justify the selection of the most desirable option. [7 marks] only when a key is not
provided.
[4 to 6 marks]
For [6 marks] there is a largely accurate decision-tree. At the lower end of the band
labelling may be incomplete and there may be several mistakes in calculations.
[2 to 3 marks]
The decision-tree contains significant errors. The candidate may confuse decision
points and chance nodes.
[1 mark]
For a fundamentally flawed decision tree.
Mr Yin may have carried out market research, both primary and secondary, to produce
the probabilities for economic growth. The research could have involved government
statistics, forecasts of economic institutes and economic analysts etc.
The costs of expansion could have come from previous expansion data, various quotes
from building companies and desk research using standard costing. Several of the
figures are likely to be estimates.
[3 marks]
For identification of primary and secondary sources using a range of examples
mentioned above.
[2 marks]
For identification of at least some sources but may not include both primary and
secondary sources.
[1 mark]
For identification of a single source of information.
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(c) Explain two advantages and two disadvantages of using a decision tree. [4 marks]
Possible advantages:
y the construction of the decision tree diagram may formalise the process,
y shows possible courses of actions not considered before,
y forces management to take account of risks involved in decisions and could lead to a
more rational decision.
Possible disadvantages:
y the information is often estimated (probabilities as well as profit);
y this technique ignores qualitative issues: image, objectives, social responsibility,
human resource issues / motivation, skills;
y the process may be complicated and time consuming and is subject to constant
changes in the external environment;
y any other valid advantages/disadvantages will be acceptable.
[4 marks]
Explanation of two advantages and two disadvantages.
[2 to 3 marks]
An “imbalanced explanation”. For [2 marks] the answer is limited in scope – a list
rather than explanation is provided.
[1 mark]
A vague, very superficial answer.
(d) Assess the difficulties that the organization may face selling its
product abroad. [5 marks]
Mr Yin’s ability to overcome above will depend on the expertise of his staff, his ability
to negotiate abroad, connections, level of adaptation etc.
[5 marks]
A consideration and assessment of at least three relevant obstacles.
[3 to 4 marks]
Consideration and assessment of two obstacles.
[1 to 2 marks]
A list of possible obstacles or for an assessment of one obstacle.