Instructions for Analysis Essay #1 Your essay must be at least 1500 words (approximately 4-5 pages). Microsoft Word has a word count feature, and you can usually view the word count in the bar at the bottom of Word. If necessary, search Google for help on how to view the Word count in Microsoft Word.  Please download the attached template, which contains additional instructions (and make sure you follow all instructions in the template!).  The template document is also formatted correctly for your essay, so you are encouraged to write directly in the attached document (replacing the paragraphs of instruction with your paragraphs addressing each section).  Also note that the template is organized into the specific sections you are required to write about in your essay.  Please leave all centered sub-headings in the essay, and do not change the wording of them -- they are important for organizing your essay and facilitating grading by the rubric. Please write only in your own words. You are encouraged to read various sources to learn more about your information system, or about information systems in general, but due to the brief length of the essay, you are discouraged from directly quoting from your sources. Instead, explain what you learned from your research and what you know from your own experience with the system, in your own words. List the references you consulted in your research at the bottom of your essay in APA format (minimum of 3 references). In Analysis Essay #1, you will address the following: 1) introduction to your information system, 2) characteristics of the users of the information system, 3) server-side and client-side hardware and software of the system, 4) description of the features/functions of your information system, including the data inputs and information outputs associated with each feature and how each feature is used within your organization, and 5) conclusion.  Specific details about what to include in each section can be found in the attached template.

Discuss the 2 pros and 2 cons of activity-based costing. Give an example of a situation where activity-based costing could be used effectively. Explain your reason.  Discuss what absorption, variables, and throughput costing are. Determine when each would be used. Provide an explanation and example of all three.