discussion post accounting merchandising businesses

Discussion Post.

Computers have become a staple in the lives of most people. There are many companies that provide computers on the market. Assume that you are planning to purchase a new laptop for your classes, work and home use. Please go to 2 of the following websites and make a selection.

1. HP http://www.hp.com/#Product
2. Acer http://www.acer.com/worldwide/selection.html
3. Apple http://www.apple.com/

Once you have made your selection, please complete the following items and questions:

1. Compare the following items for your selections:
   1. Price
   2. Delivery Charges
   3. Financing Options
   4. Discounts
   5. Coupons
   6. Warranties
   7. Installation Offered
   8. Recycling of Old Components Offered
2. What are some factors that can impact the gross profit of a merchandise company?
3. One item that can help investors measure how effectively a business is using its assets to generate sales is the ratio of net sales to assets. The calculation explanation for this financial ratio is found on page 275 of the textbook. Use the following links to find the financial information needed to calculate the net sales to assets measures for your two selected companies. Which company has the better ratio? Why do you think this is the case? Please use the most recent annual report available. Also, make sure to use the same year’s annual report for your companies. 
   a. HPhttp://h30261.www3.hp.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=71087&p=irol- reportsannual
   b. ACERhttp://www.acer- group.com/public/Investor_Relations/index.htm
   c. Applehttp://investor.apple.com/sec.cfm?SortOrder=Size%20Descending&DocType=&DocTypeExclude=&Year=&FormatFilter=&CIK