A research paper on a relevant topic is required for this course.  Begin working on this assignment as early, during the semester, as possible to attain the best results! You must submit your intended topic to the instructor for approval no later than the end of the second week of the semester. Failure to do so could result in a loss of points from the overall assignment grade.  The instructor must approve all topics. Utilize all available data sources including, but not limited to: periodicals, books, company documentation (e.g. financial statements, annual reports, mission statements, product and sales literature, etc.), interviews with a company or industry officials, electronic data sources (e.g. internet, www, listservs, etc). The research paper is to be 8 – 10 pages in length (not including the cover sheet and references), typed, double spaced, one inch margins on all sides, with a cover page. At least 2 of your references must be scholarly articles. Paper format and citations must comply with the American Psychological Association (APA), 6th Edition format.  APA template is provided in the Administrative Conference thread.