The Technology Network Financial Policy - Accounting and Finance Assignment Help

Assignment Task:

Task:
Policies and Procedures Manual


1.0 Introduction
The Technology Network Financial Policy and Procedure Manual provides the policies and procedures for financial transactions within the business operations which must be followed by all staff. It also provides guidelines The Technology Network will use to administer these policies, with the correct procedure to follow.
The Technology Network will keep all financial policies current and relevant. From time to time it will be necessary to modify and amend some sections of the policies and procedures, or to add new procedures.
As the volume and complexity grow in our business operation the financial management activities will also require increased focus on our systems and people. Protection of our data is paramount and thereby security and authority levels must be observed. We are continually seeking improvements in efficiency without compromising quality. Investment into digital technologies require updating of access, record, storing, organising and compilation of data and reports. So policy and procedures must be observed to accomplish our goals and legislative compliance.
These policies and procedures apply to all employees.
Any suggestions, recommendations or feedback on the policies and procedures in this manual are welcome.

2.0 Style GuideAll documents produced for The Technology Network should, as far as possible, follow the criteria and instructions set out below:
File organisation: Create an electronic folder titled “Accounts Team” and save all documents in this folder.
File names:Save all documents with the Task Number, your last name and an appropriate title, i.e. Task 1_Smith_Template.
Header:Right – Date using the “Insert Date” function so that it automatically updates. The font size should be 8 point, the font Calibri
Footer: The footer should contain the file path, left justified. On the right side of the footer the author of the spreadsheet should include their name. The font size should be 8 point, the font Calibri
Orientation: Landscape
Main Heading Format: The Technology Network - Calibri 16pt font, Bold, Dark Blue. Merge and centre across the width of the worksheet.
Other Heading Format: Calibri 12pt font, Bold, Dark Blue.
Column Heading Format: Calibri 11pt font, Bold, and centred.
Other cells: Calibri 11pt font.
Number Format:Numbers representing a dollar value should be formatted as Accounting with 2 decimal places. Other numbers should have no decimal places, unless indicated otherwise.
Borders:Total rows – one line on top and double underline on bottom.
Other borders included should assist the spreadsheet to look professional.
Charts: Charts should sit underneath the data they are drawn from. The page orientation should be Landscape.
Formulas:Use efficient formulas (e.g. SUM, AVERAGE) when more than two cells are to be calculated. Test all formulas.
Use advanced software tools to improve efficiency and allow for reuse of workbooks. Many reuse problems can be overcome by using the Absolute Cell Reference; IF Function; Round Function and VLOOKUP functions.
Printing:All data/formulas must be readable. Adjust columns if necessary.
Centre all data on the page vertically and horizontally.Apply gridlines and row/column headings to formula printouts.
Other:Keep the number of columns reasonably neat and wrap headings where possible.
APPROVAL DATE 12 October 20X1

3.0 Data ManagementThe following principles outline the minimum standards that guide The Technology Networks data management procedures and must be adhered to by all staff:
5.1 The Technology Network, rather than any individual or Organisational Unit, is the owner of all data.
5.2 Every data source must have a Data Manager who is responsible for the quality and integrity, implementation and enforcement of data management within their Organisational Unit. Data Managers are responsible for ensuring effective local protocols are in place to guide the appropriate use of data.
5.3 Access to, and use of, company data will generally be administered by the appropriate Data Manager.
5.4 The Data Manager, having determined the category of the institutional data as confidential, will approve access based on appropriateness of the User's role and the intended use.
5.5 Data Manager must ensure the process for the administration of data is in accordance with the Data Management Archive policy
5.6 Data Users must ensure appropriate procedures are followed to uphold the quality and integrity of the data they access.
5.7 Data records must be kept up-to-date throughout every stage of the workflow and in an auditable and traceable manner.
5.8 Data should only be collected for legitimate uses and to add value to The Technology Network.
5.9 Extraction, manipulation and reporting of data must be done only to perform company business:
Personal use of institutional data, including derived data, in any format and at any location, is prohibited.
Where appropriate, before any data (other than publicly available data) is used or shared outside the company, verification with the Data Manager is required to ensure the quality, integrity and security of data will not be compromised.
5.10 Data stored in an electronic format must be protected by appropriate electronic safeguards and/or physical access controls that restrict access only to authorised user(s). Similarly, data in hard copy format must also be stored in a manner that will restrict access only to authorised user(s).
5.11 Appropriate data security measures must be adhered to at all times to assure the safety, quality and integrity of company’s data.
5.12 The definition and terms used to describe different types of data should be defined consistently across the company.
5.13 Data shall be retained and disposed of in an appropriate manner in accordance with the company's Records and Archives Policy and the Records Retention and Disposal Schedule.
5.14. Policy Review. This Policy will be reviewed and updated every five (5) years from the approval date, or more frequently if appropriate. In this regard, any staff members who wish to make any comments about the Policy may forward their suggestions to the Responsible Officer.
APPROVAL DATE 1 September 20X4

4.0 Data EntryWhen entering data or information into The Technology Networks information system the following policies and procedures should be followed.
4.1 Only access the records management system you are authorised to access.
4.2 Before creating a new customer, supplier, employee or other stakeholder record, check that an existing record does not already exist for that person or organisation.
4.3 If a new record needs to be created, a request for a new record needs to be prepared and approved by the relevant manager.
4.4 When new records are created the following rules apply to ensure consistency in the database:
Only capitalize the first letter of the first, middle and last name.
Do not use all caps for entering any data into the data base
All individuals must have a Title
Each entry in the data base requires a R2 code, this tells the users why this person or organization is in our database. Entries can have multiple R2 codes.
4.5 When entering addresses avoid the use of abbreviations. Some abbreviations are necessary such as post office box will become PO.
4.6 when entering addresses for units the following style will be used XX/Y. For example unit 7 number 24 Smith street will become 7/24 Smith Street.
4.7 Always enter a postcode and a two or three letter state abbreviation, such as NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA TAS, ACT and NT
4.8 When entering telephone contact numbers always use the area codes, such as 02, 03 etc
APPROVAL DATE 9 October 20X3

5.0 Reporting5.1 This policy describes each relevant component of the financial reporting policy and procedure and how these elements work together to provide stakeholders with relevant and timely reports that are useful for decision making. This ensures that The Technology Network takes a consistent position to drive a holistic financial reporting response. This also ensures that the stakeholders in The Technology Network are not inappropriately informed by one element of the framework at the cost of another(s).
5.2 Financial reporting is a complex area. The preparation of reports will be guided by:
The accounting standards.
The information needs of the user of the reports
The cost of collecting, collating and preparing reports
The priority of the need for a particular report
5.3. However, effective financial reporting is an important governance and regulatory requirement The Technology Network. Requirements for legislative and regulatory reports will receive the highest priority.
5.4 The creating and provision of reports that providers of funding, members, creditors and others as to the financial position and financial performance of the Technology Network will receive a lower priority.
5.5 Requests for ad hoc reports must be reviewed and approved by the Chief Financial Officer.
5.6 The priority given to a particular request for an ad hoc report will depend upon:
The cost of developing the requested financial report
The cost/benefit relationship of the report;
The complexity of the reporting requirement.
The effectiveness of the financial report being provided in conveying the intended aims of the report.
5.7 All reports generated should have a consistent look and style, this should be in accordance with The Technology Networks style guide found in section 2 of this manual.
5.8 All reports should be premised on the use of the report as a decision making tool, ie: is the report useful to a decision maker?
5.9 All reports created and distributed must be compliant with the requirements of the Data Management policy, in particular security and privacy considerations must be taken into account.
APPROVAL DATE 31 March 20X6

6.0 Data storage6.1 Introduction:
This Policy is based on the principle that the data generated and collected by The Technology Network is a valuable asset and should be managed like any other valuable asset. The data and information accumulated by The Technology Network is essential for the ongoing operations of the business. The storage and management of this data should exhibit the following characteristics:
Data and information is stored safely and securely
The integrity of the data is a paramount concern.
Data is accessible to those who need it
Unauthorised users cannot have access to the data and information.
A coherent, rational and effective filing system will be used
Data will be backed up.
The same principles apply to paper records as well as electronic records.
6.2 Overall Responsibilities:
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has overall responsibility for the management and storage of all data and information. Specifically the
ensuring compliance with all legislative and regulatory requirements, such as the Privacy act and the Income Tax Assessment Act
Development and modification of additional policies and procedures as the need arises
Management of the storage systems and assets used to store both physical and electronic data and information.
Coordination of and enabling the sharing of data between sections and outside organisations when it is required.
Implementation of archiving and disposal of older records
Development and implementation of access controls, security measures relating to the storage of data and information.
Developing and providing training and support for Technology Network staff in the application of data management policies and procedures
6.3 Storage and Retention:
6.3.1 All data and information collected must be kept in a format that is compatible with its use, legislative requirements and the storage methods available.
6.3.2 When a data or information file is created a ‘retention date’ must be added to the record. This data indicates the period of time the record must be kept for. Some records may not have a retention date as the record may have a useful life that is indeterminate. In these cases a review date is to be added. The review date is when the CFO or their delegate reviews the file and decides if the record is to be kept, archived or disposed of.
6.3.3 Retention dates will be referenced to legislative requirements and business needs.
6.3.4 Generally taxation records are to be kept for 7 years
6.3.5 Data and information are to be stored in centrally supported storage systems. The system chosen must meet the following requirements:
Enabling the sharing of the data to those authorised to access it.
Data is securely stored, including data held in computing systems;
Data is stored in a durable, indexed and retrievable form
6.3.6 Staff who are granted access to confidential data and information must maintain confidentiality.
6.4 Disposal of records:
Any data or information records that have reached the expiration of the appropriate retention period will be disposed of.
Disposal of any data or information record must be in compliance with legislative, ethical, confidentiality, contractual and business policy requirements.
Secure shredding is the preferred method of disposal.
APPROVAL DATE 20 April 20X9

7.0 Workstation set upProlonged work at a computer/ workstation may result in postural discomfort and result in injuries such as neck, arms, hands and back strains. These injuries occur because of a poorly setup workstation and poor posture. Setting up your workstation correctly is the first step in preventing overuse injuries. Below are the steps that should be taken to ensure safe computer use, arrange work tasks and minimise the risk of injury. Consideration should be given to:
• accessories required to operate properly
• layout of equipment • location of furniture.
7.1 STEPS FOR WORKSTATION SETUP
7.1.1 DESKS
Adjust the height of the desk/work surface and chair so that your elbows are bent at 90º, forearms should be parallel with the floor, wrists straight, and shoulders relaxed. Place all controls and task materials within a comfortable reach of both hands so that there is no unnecessary twisting of any part of the body. Most people prefer the document holder to be between the keyboard and the monitor. There are many different types of document holders available.
7.1.2 CHAIRS AND FOOTRESTS
Adjust the seat tilt so that you are comfortable working on the keyboard. Your knees should be bent at a comfortable angle and greater than 90º flexion. If this places an uncomfortable strain on the leg muscles, or if the feet do not reach the floor, then a footrest should be used. The footrest height must allow your knees to be bent at 90º; the height of the footrest may need to be adjustable. Adjust the backrest so that it supports the lower back when you are sitting upright. There are a range of chairs available at The Technology Network, check with the The Technology Network WHS Officer for options.
7.1.3 PHONES
In most cases The Technology Network uses Skype with a VOIP system. Where this is not the case, avoid cradling a desk phone between your head and shoulder when answering calls. If you need to use your computer at the same time as a hard phone, use a headset or the phone's hands-free/speaker-phone where possible.
7.1.4 KEYBOARDS
The keyboard should be placed in a position that allows the forearms to be close to horizontal and the wrists straight, the hand should be in line with the forearm. If elbows are held far out from the side of the body then re-check the desk/ work surface height.
7.1.5 MONITORS
Set the eye-to-screen distance so you can easily focus on the screen. Usually this will be within an arm's length. The height of the monitor should be set so that the top of the screen is below eye level. The bottom of the screen should be read without inclination of the head. Essentially the centre of the screen will need to be near shoulder height. The height of the monitor can be adjusted using a monitor stand/riser. People who wear bifocal or multi-focal lenses will need to get a balance between where they see out of their lenses and avoid too much neck flexing.
7.1.6 DOCUMENT HOLDERS
Place the document holder close to the monitor screen in the position that causes the least twisting or inclination of the head. Document holders are available for The Technology Network crew members.
7.1.7 LIGHTING, GLARE AND REFLECTION
Lighting
Place the monitor to the side of the light source/s, not directly underneath. Where possible site desks between rows of lights and avoid placing screens near windows. If it is unavoidable ensure that neither the screen nor the operator faces the window. If the monitor is away from windows, there are no other sources of bright light low level of service light of 300 lux is recommended. If there are strongly contrasting light levels, then a moderate level of lighting of 400-500 lux may be preferable.
Glare and reflection
Determine whether there is glare from overhead lights by sitting at your workstation and holding a book above the eyes (at eyebrow level). The screen image will become clearer in the absence of overhead glare. Determine if there are reflections from the desk surface by holding the book above the surface and assessing any change in reflected glare on the screen. You can eliminate or reduce the influence of these reflections in a number of ways:
1. Tilt the screen (top part forwards) so that the reflections are directed below eye level.
2. Cover the screen with a light diffusing surface or anti-glare screen.
3. Negative contrast screen (dark characters on light background) will reduce the influence of these reflections. If you experience eye discomfort when using a bright screen you should make the following adjustments:
• Turn the screen brightness down to a comfortable level.
• Look away into the distance in order to rest the eyes for a short while every 10 minutes or so.
• Change the text and background colours. We recommend black characters on white or yellow background, or yellow on black, white on black, white on blue and green on white. Avoid red and green and yellow on white.
7.1.8 USING A MOUSE
A well-designed ergonomic mouse such as a trackball mouse or a slim-line, low-profile mouse should not cause undue pressure on the wrist and forearm muscles. A large bulky mouse may keep the wrist continuously bent at an uncomfortable angle. Reduce pressure by releasing the mouse at frequent intervals. Keep the mouse as close as possible to the keyboard, elbow bent and close to the body.

7.1.9 LAPTOPS
Laptops were designed to use for short periods of time. If you are using a laptop for long periods it is a good idea to:
• place your laptop on an adjustable stand, so you can view the screen at eye level
• attach an external keyboard and mouse.
7.2 ERGONOMIC EQUIPMENT
The Technology Network has arrange of ergonomically-designed equipment. This includes upright mouse, trackball mouse, trackpads, mini keyboards, contoured keyboards, reading stands, footrests, sit-to-stand desks and more. Discuss requirements with your crew leader and WHS Officer.
Sit-to-stand workstations Sit-to-stand desks move up and down with the user and can be adjusted for use by multiple people of various heights.
Sit-to-stand accessories A Varidesk can be placed directly onto a desk without specialist installation and can be easily moved to different desks. An Ergotron must be installed by a specialist. There are several different styles to suit a range of different desks.
7.3 GENERAL WORKING CONDITIONS
7.3.1 KEYBOARD EQUIPMENT AND RADIATION Computer screens emit visible light that allows the characters on the screen to be seen. Weak electromagnetic fields and very low levels of other radiation that are not visible to the human eye can be detected by sensitive instruments. Similar emissions are produced by television receivers. The levels of most radiations and electromagnetic fields emitted from computers are much less than those from natural sources, such as the sun or even the human body, and are well below levels considered to be harmful by responsible expert bodies such as the International Radiation Protection Association (IRPA).
7.3.2 POSTURE
Good posture is essential. Adopt a natural and relaxed position, providing opportunity for movement, from which you can assume a number of alternative positions. There is no single, rigidly defined position.
7.3.3 TYPING
Typing is a physical activity using a keyboard and requires skill. Unskilled typists are at risk of "occupational overuse injury" because they:
• often use only one or two fingers which may overload the finger tendons
• are constantly looking from keyboard to screen to keyboard, which may strain neck muscles
• often adopt a tense posture (wrists bent back and fingers 'poised to strike'). The Technology Network acknowledges the importance of learning correct typing technique. There are numerous online touch typing lessons. We recommend Learn How To Touch Type (RATATYPE).
1.4 REST BREAKS
Maintaining a fixed posture for long periods of time increases the likelihood of muscular aches and pains. Long periods of repetitive movement and sustained visual attention can also give rise to fatigue-related complaints. Change your posture at frequent intervals to minimise fatigue and avoid awkward postures at the extremes of the joint range, especially the wrists. Take frequent short rest breaks rather than infrequent longer ones. Avoid sharp increases in work rate. Changes should be gradual enough to ensure that the workload does not result in excessive fatigue. It is recommended that crew members:
• take regular postural/stretching breaks to reduce intense periods of repetitive movement. At least a 5 minute break every hour is recommended.
• refocus their eyes away from the screen; for example every 20 minutes, focus on an object 20 metres away for 20 seconds
• drink plenty of water to keep well hydrated
• take time away from your desk during your lunch break
• where possible, mix computer related tasks with non-computer related tasks.
Note: crew members returning from an absence of two or more weeks should be provided with a period of adjustment consisting of reduced work rates, or alternative duties when requested. Tasks should be designed and organised so that:
• computer-related tasks can be interspersed with non-computer related
• computer based tasks can be rotated amongst several staff (task/job sharing).
Crew leaders should ensure that workload controls are exercised using the following strategies:
• planning ahead to avoid peaks and rushed jobs
• delegating fairly to all crew not just the high achievers
• considering the total workload of the individual
• clearly defining each crew members workload
• supporting crew with time management and task prioritisation.
APPROVAL DATE 19 November 20X2

8.0 Resource useReducing our ecological footprint has benefits for a range of stakeholders including:
Employees, they know they are making a positive contribution to the sustainability of the planet on which they live.
The Technology Network, most of the steps listed below will lead to a more efficient use of resources and reduced costs.
The community in which we operate, there will be improvements in the environment in which we all live.
The main focus of this policy and procedure is:
Saving energy and resources
Travel
Reduce waste.
The following is only a small list of what can be done to improve the sustainability of our organisation. Staff are encouraged to go beyond what is in the document and attempt to improve their environmental footprint at work by implementing additional measures to reduce waste and reduce resource use.
To maximise the impact the changes, where possible:
involve your team or co-workers to generate ideas and solutions
take some time to develop a plan and build in ways to measure your impact
do some research into the savings and benefits from any proposed changes you come up with
share your findings and progress with others employed by The Technology Network, including management
8.1 Reduce resource and energy use
No matter what your role in your organisation, you can still contribute to saving money and resources. Here are 6 things you can do now without consulting anyone.
Switch to reusable coffee cups. Choosing to bring in a reusable coffee cup can make a real contribution to reducing a growing problem.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Just top up your reusable bottle with free tap water. If you do buy bottled water, remember to recycle the bottles after use or you could even reuse them as bird feeders, a drip watering system for your garden or to grow your own seedlings.
Bring your lunch to work. Australians are spending billions of dollars each year on food that they buy but don't eat. Think about bringing your lunch to work—it could save money and reduce waste. Take away food can result in paper or plastic waste, and is likely to be more expensive than bringing your lunch with you.
Use the off switch. Lots of equipment is drawing power even while you're not using it. Turn off your mobile phone charger at the power point once it's finished charging your phone. It's still using energy if left on—even when your phone is not plugged in. Another option is to recharge during car trips. Most cars have a connection point but you'll need the correct adapter. Switch off the light at work if there's enough daylight to work effectively. Switch lights off when you go out for more than 10 minutes (if there's no one else in your area) and when you go home too.
Maximise computer efficiency. Switch off your computer and screen when you leave work for the day, otherwise you'll still be using energy. 
Print smarter and go paperless where possible. Make it a habit to think before you print: could this be read or stored online instead? When you do need to print something, set your printer to print on both sides, use the black and white print option where possible and try using the blank side of old documents for faxes, drafts or scrap paper. Keep a box next to your desk to place paper for recycling and empty it into the larger office recycling bins (if you have them) once it's full. Use colour printing only when essential. It will save you costly ink and toner cartridges.
8.2 Travel at work
How you get to and from work is another area where you can make a personal contribution—it's a great way to reduce your daily travel costs and impact. There are even ways you can save your organisation money by using technology to reduce the need to travel to meetings during work hours.
8.2.1 Getting to work
Reducing the number of car trips you make will reduce your fuel and running costs and the wear and tear on your car. Heavy traffic on our roads increases traffic congestion, as well air and noise pollution.
You can use your car less by walking, riding, using public transport or car pooling and car sharing to get to work. This can cut your transport costs and reduce or even remove the need for your car or the second car and help you get some exercise.
Try using public transport one day a week as a start and build this up over time. Use the time to read, relax and do some work while saving on parking and vehicle costs. If you live within cycling distance, you could try riding one day a week in good weather and increase the number of rides over time.
8.2.2 Working from home
Teleworking can result in increased productivity, reduced office expenses and improved staff retention. If you believe your job could be done by working from home 1, 2 3 or 4 days per week, have a discussion with your manager and see if it is possible to arrange. With its flexible work hours and arrangements, teleworking can be a very attractive option for parents, carers, people with a disability or employees simply seeking to improve their work-life balance.
8.2.3 Travel for meetings
If you need to travel locally for a meeting, consider taking public transport or carpool with your colleagues. With a little planning, public transport can be as quick as driving once you consider the time needed to find a parking space (and it can be the fastest and cheapest way of getting from many airports to the CBD in peak hour).
Although face-to-face meetings are important, virtual meetings (teleconferencing, web-conferencing or video-conferencing) can be just as effective and a more sustainable option.
8.3 Reduce waste
Help reduce the impact of your business activity on the environment by dealing thoughtfully with the waste you produce at work.
Use the recycling facilities provided. When depositing recycling into the bins provided, take care that the correct items go into the correct bins.
E-waste and batteries are a real problem in the waste stream, make sure they do not go to landfill but are placed in the correct recycling container found in the main administration area. E-waste includes computers and mobile phones.
When new toner and ink cartridges are required buy re-manufactured ones. They're generally less expensive and better for the environment.
Order from the large range of recycled and eco-friendlier stationery—like envelopes, ring binders, notebooks and more. Go for reusable clips instead of staples.
Re-use and recycle e-waste by giving old technology to someone who needs it, or to schools and charitable organisations. The Technology Network has a list of suitable organisations we can donate to. Where possible buy less and order any supplies in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
8.4 Resources and assistance
NSW Sustainable businesses NSW Government
NSW Tools and calculators NSW Government

The above  Accounting Assignment has been solved by our  Accounting Assignment  Experts at My Uni Paper. Our Assignment Writing Experts are efficient to provide a fresh solution to this question. We are serving more than 10000+ Students in Australia, UK & US by helping them to score HD in their academics. Our experts are well trained to follow all marking rubrics & referencing style.

Be it a used or new solution, the quality of the work submitted by our assignment experts remains unhampered. You may continue to expect the same or even better quality with the used and new assignment solution files respectively. There’s one thing to be noticed that you could choose one between the two and acquire an HD either way. You could choose a new assignment solution file to get yourself an exclusive, plagiarism (with free Turnitin file), expert quality assignment or order an old solution file that was considered worthy of the highest distinction.