I2C (Internet to Customer)

I2C, or Internet to Customer, refers to the direct interaction and transaction between a business and its customers via the internet. This model focuses on e-commerce, where customers can purchase products or services online, often with personalized experiences.

Impact Assessment

Impact Assessment is the process of evaluating the potential effects of a proposed project or action on the environment, society, or economy. It helps businesses and governments make informed decisions by identifying and mitigating potential negative impacts.

Incentive

An Incentive is a reward or benefit offered to motivate individuals or groups to perform a specific action or achieve a goal. In business, incentives can include bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation designed to boost productivity or sales.

Income Statement

An Income Statement, also known as a profit and loss statement, is a financial document that shows a company’s revenues, expenses, and profits over a specific period. It provides insights into a company’s financial performance and profitability.

Income Tax

Income Tax is a tax imposed by governments on the income generated by individuals and businesses. The amount of tax owed is usually based on income level and is used to fund public services and government operations.

Independent Contractor

An Independent Contractor is a self-employed individual who provides services to clients under a contract, rather than as an employee. Independent contractors have more control over how they work but do not receive employee benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans.

Index Fund

An Index Fund is a type of mutual fund or exchange-traded fund (ETF) that aims to replicate the performance of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500. Index funds offer diversified exposure to a broad market and are popular for their low costs and passive management style.

Indirect Costs

Indirect Costs are expenses that are not directly tied to a specific product or service but are necessary for running a business, such as utilities, rent, and administrative salaries. These costs are also known as overhead and are allocated across various departments.

Inflation

Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, eroding purchasing power over time. Central banks often aim to control inflation through monetary policy to maintain economic stability.

Information Technology (IT)

Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of computers, networks, and software to store, retrieve, and transmit information. IT is critical for modern business operations, enabling everything from data management to communication and cybersecurity.

Information Systems

Information Systems are integrated sets of components used to collect, process, store, and disseminate information, supporting decision-making and control in an organization. They are essential for managing business processes and improving efficiency.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure refers to the fundamental physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise, such as transportation systems, utilities, and communication networks. Strong infrastructure is key to economic growth and business success.

Initial Public Offering (IPO)

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process by which a private company offers shares to the public for the first time, allowing it to raise capital from investors. An IPO can significantly increase a company’s visibility and financial resources but also comes with regulatory and reporting requirements.

Innovation

Innovation is the process of developing new ideas, products, or methods that bring value to a business or society. It is a key driver of growth and competitive advantage, enabling companies to meet changing market demands and improve efficiency.

Intellectual Property (IP)

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. Protecting IP through patents, copyrights, and trademarks is crucial for encouraging innovation and securing business assets.

Interest Rate

The Interest Rate is the cost of borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount, or the return on investment for lenders. Interest rates are determined by market conditions and central bank policies and can significantly impact economic activity.

International Business

International Business involves commercial transactions that occur across national borders, including trade, investment, and management. Companies engaged in international business must navigate different cultural, legal, and economic environments.

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization that provides financial assistance and advice to member countries facing economic instability. The IMF aims to promote global financial stability, facilitate international trade, and reduce poverty.

Internal Audit

Internal Audit is an independent, objective assurance activity designed to improve an organization’s operations by evaluating and improving risk management, control, and governance processes. It helps ensure compliance with laws and regulations and the effectiveness of internal controls.

Internal Rate of Return (IRR)

The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a financial metric used to evaluate the profitability of an investment, calculated as the discount rate that makes the net present value (NPV) of the investment’s cash flows equal to zero. It is widely used in capital budgeting to compare the potential returns of different projects.

Inventory

Inventory refers to the raw materials, work-in-progress goods, and finished products that a company holds for the purpose of resale. Effective inventory management is crucial for meeting customer demand while minimizing holding costs.

Investment

An Investment is the allocation of resources, typically money, with the expectation of generating a profit or return over time. Investments can include stocks, bonds, real estate, or business ventures, and are essential for wealth creation and economic growth.

Investor Relations

Investor Relations is the communication process between a company and its investors, aiming to provide transparency and build trust. This function involves disseminating financial information, managing shareholder meetings, and addressing investor inquiries.

Invoice

An Invoice is a document issued by a seller to a buyer, listing the goods or services provided and the amount due for payment. Invoices are essential for maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring timely payment.

IPO Roadshow

An IPO Roadshow is a series of presentations made by a company’s executives to potential investors before an Initial Public Offering (IPO). The roadshow aims to generate interest in the IPO and provide information about the company’s business model, financials, and growth prospects.

IRR (Internal Rate of Return)

The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a financial metric used to evaluate the profitability of an investment, calculated as the discount rate that makes the net present value (NPV) of the investment’s cash flows equal to zero. It is widely used in capital budgeting to compare the potential returns of different projects.

Issuance

Issuance refers to the process of offering new securities, such as stocks or bonds, for sale to investors. Companies issue securities to raise capital for expansion, debt repayment, or other financial needs.

Insider Trading

Insider Trading involves the buying or selling of a company’s securities by someone with access to non-public, material information about the company. Insider trading is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Insurance

Insurance is a financial product that provides protection against specific risks, such as property damage, health issues, or business interruptions, in exchange for a premium. Insurance helps individuals and businesses manage risk and recover from financial losses.

Integrated Marketing

Integrated Marketing is a strategic approach that coordinates all marketing efforts, including advertising, public relations, digital media, and sales promotion, to deliver a consistent and unified message across all channels. This approach maximizes the impact of marketing campaigns and strengthens brand identity.

Intermediary

An Intermediary is a third party that facilitates transactions between two other parties, such as brokers, agents, or dealers. Intermediaries play a critical role in markets by connecting buyers and sellers, reducing transaction costs, and providing expertise.

Internet Marketing

Internet Marketing, also known as online marketing, involves promoting products or services over the internet using strategies like search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, and email campaigns. It is a vital component of modern business, reaching a global audience and driving sales.

Intrinsic Value

Intrinsic Value refers to the perceived or calculated true value of an asset, based on underlying factors such as earnings, dividends, and growth potential. Investors use intrinsic value to determine whether an asset is overvalued or undervalued in the market.

Inbound Marketing

Inbound Marketing is a strategy focused on attracting customers by creating valuable content and experiences tailored to their needs and interests. Unlike traditional outbound marketing, which pushes messages to a broad audience, inbound marketing draws customers in through channels like blogs, social media, and SEO.

Innovation Cycle

The Innovation Cycle is the continuous process of developing new ideas, bringing them to market, and refining them based on feedback and market conditions. This cycle is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and adapting to changing customer needs.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet, such as servers, storage, and networking. IaaS allows businesses to scale their IT infrastructure quickly and cost-effectively without the need for physical hardware.

Integrated Supply Chain

An Integrated Supply Chain is a supply chain where all components, from suppliers to manufacturers to retailers, work together seamlessly to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. Integration often involves shared information systems and coordinated logistics to ensure smooth operations.

Intercompany Transactions

Intercompany Transactions are financial activities that occur between different entities within the same parent company, such as the sale of goods or services, loans, or transfers of assets. Proper management and documentation of intercompany transactions are essential for accurate financial reporting and compliance.

Industry Analysis

Industry Analysis is the evaluation of market dynamics, competitive landscape, and economic factors within a specific industry to assess its attractiveness and potential for growth. This analysis helps businesses make strategic decisions, such as entering new markets or launching products.

International Trade

International Trade refers to the exchange of goods, services, and capital between countries, driven by comparative advantages and global demand. International trade is a key driver of economic growth, enabling countries to access a wider variety of products and markets.

Interpersonal Skills

Interpersonal Skills are the abilities used to communicate and interact effectively with others, including listening, empathy, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for building relationships and fostering collaboration in the workplace.

Incentive Compensation

Incentive Compensation is a form of pay linked to an employee’s performance, designed to motivate and reward achievements such as sales targets, productivity improvements, or innovation. Common examples include bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing plans.

Information Security

Information Security involves protecting digital and physical data from unauthorized access, breaches, and other cyber threats. It is a critical aspect of business operations, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

Income Generation

Income Generation refers to the strategies and activities undertaken by individuals or organizations to create revenue and improve financial stability. In business, income generation involves sales, investments, and business operations that drive profitability.

Intellectual Capital

Intellectual Capital is the intangible value of a company’s knowledge, experience, relationships, and intellectual property, contributing to its competitive advantage. Managing intellectual capital effectively can enhance innovation, efficiency, and market positioning.

Incremental Change

Incremental Change is a gradual, step-by-step approach to making improvements or adjustments within an organization, as opposed to radical or transformative change. This method allows businesses to adapt and evolve without significant disruption.

Inclusive Business

Inclusive Business models aim to integrate low-income communities into the value chain as suppliers, distributors, or consumers, creating shared value for both the business and society. These models focus on sustainability and social impact while generating profits.

Independent Variable

An Independent Variable is the variable in an experiment or analysis that is manipulated or changed to observe its effect on a dependent variable. In business research, independent variables might include factors like price changes, marketing efforts, or product features.

Industry Benchmark

An Industry Benchmark is a standard or point of reference used to compare a company’s performance against that of its peers within the same industry. Benchmarks help businesses identify areas for improvement and set realistic goals.

Intrapreneurship

Intrapreneurship refers to the practice of fostering entrepreneurial behavior within an organization, encouraging employees to develop innovative ideas and drive new projects. Intrapreneurs operate with a degree of autonomy, much like entrepreneurs, but within the structure of an existing company.

Investor

An Investor is an individual or institution that allocates capital with the expectation of earning a return, typically by purchasing stocks, bonds, real estate, or other assets. Investors play a critical role in providing funding for businesses and driving economic growth.

Investment Portfolio

An Investment Portfolio is a collection of financial assets, such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and cash, held by an individual or institution. Diversifying a portfolio helps manage risk and achieve specific financial goals.

Investment Banking

Investment Banking is a segment of banking that deals with capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and other financial advisory services for corporations, governments, and institutions. Investment banks play a key role in the financial markets, helping clients access funding and execute complex transactions.

Irrevocable Trust

An Irrevocable Trust is a legal arrangement in which the grantor transfers assets into a trust that cannot be altered, amended, or terminated without the beneficiary’s consent. Irrevocable trusts are often used for estate planning to reduce tax liabilities and protect assets.

Invoice Financing

Invoice Financing is a financial service that allows businesses to borrow money against their outstanding invoices to improve cash flow. This method provides immediate access to funds tied up in unpaid invoices, helping businesses manage their working capital needs.

Import Tax

Import Tax is a duty imposed by a government on goods brought into a country, intended to protect domestic industries and generate revenue. Import taxes can affect the cost of goods and impact international trade.

Innovation Management

Innovation Management is the systematic approach to developing, implementing, and nurturing new ideas, processes, or products within an organization. It involves managing creativity, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring that innovative efforts align with business strategy.

Income Distribution

Income Distribution refers to how income is spread across different individuals or groups within an economy, highlighting inequalities or disparities in wealth. Understanding income distribution is important for addressing social and economic challenges.

Informed Consent

Informed Consent is the process of obtaining permission from individuals before they participate in research, clinical trials, or other activities that involve personal risk. It ensures that participants are fully aware of the potential consequences and benefits before agreeing.

Institutional Investor

An Institutional Investor is an organization, such as a pension fund, insurance company, or mutual fund, that invests large sums of money in securities, real estate, or other assets. Institutional investors have significant influence in the financial markets due to the size of their investments.

Initial Investment

Initial Investment refers to the amount of money required to start a business or project, including the costs of acquiring assets, securing resources, and covering initial operating expenses. It is the foundation upon which a business builds its operations and growth.

Impact Investing

Impact Investing involves making investments with the intention of generating positive social or environmental impact alongside a financial return. Impact investors seek to address challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality through their investment choices.

Information Overload

Information Overload occurs when an individual or organization is overwhelmed by the amount of information available, making it difficult to process and make decisions. Managing information overload is crucial for maintaining productivity and focus in a data-rich environment.

Internal Controls

Internal Controls are processes and procedures implemented by an organization to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial and operational information. They help prevent fraud, ensure compliance with regulations, and safeguard assets.

Inactive Account

An Inactive Account is a financial account that has not been used or accessed for an extended period. Financial institutions may impose fees or close inactive accounts to manage operational costs.

International Standards Organization (ISO)

The International Standards Organization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental organization that develops and publishes international standards across various industries. ISO standards ensure quality, safety, and efficiency, facilitating global trade and cooperation.

Indemnity

Indemnity is a contractual agreement in which one party agrees to compensate another for any loss or damage that occurs. Indemnity clauses are commonly used in insurance policies, contracts, and legal agreements to manage risk.

Initial Coin Offering (ICO)

An Initial Coin Offering (ICO) is a fundraising method used by blockchain startups to raise capital by issuing digital tokens in exchange for cryptocurrency or fiat money. ICOs are similar to initial public offerings (IPOs) but are often less regulated.

Income Generation Strategy

An Income Generation Strategy is a plan developed by individuals, businesses, or organizations to create and sustain sources of revenue. This strategy may involve diversifying income streams, optimizing pricing, and expanding market reach.

Indexing

Indexing is the process of tracking the performance of a group of assets, such as stocks or bonds, to create a benchmark or index. Index funds use indexing to replicate the performance of a specific market index, offering investors a way to invest in a broad market segment.

Initial Investment Decision

The Initial Investment Decision involves evaluating and selecting a business venture, project, or asset to invest in, based on factors like potential return, risk, and alignment with strategic goals. This decision is critical to setting the direction of an investment portfolio.

Inductive Reasoning

Inductive Reasoning is a logical process that involves making generalizations based on specific observations or evidence. In business, inductive reasoning is used to identify trends, forecast outcomes, and develop hypotheses.

Industrial Relations

Industrial Relations refers to the relationship between employers, employees, and the government in the workplace, focusing on issues such as collective bargaining, labor rights, and conflict resolution. Effective industrial relations are essential for maintaining a productive and harmonious work environment.

Insurance Premium

An Insurance Premium is the amount of money paid by an individual or business to an insurance company for coverage over a specified period. Premiums are typically paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, and are based on factors like risk level and coverage amount.

Instructional Design

Instructional Design is the process of creating educational programs, courses, or materials that effectively teach specific skills or knowledge. It involves analyzing learners’ needs, defining learning objectives, and designing engaging content.

Implied Warranty

An Implied Warranty is an unwritten guarantee that a product or service meets certain quality standards, even if not explicitly stated. Implied warranties are legally binding and ensure that consumers receive products that are fit for their intended purpose.

Invoicing

Invoicing is the process of creating and sending invoices to customers or clients for goods or services provided. Efficient invoicing practices are essential for maintaining cash flow and ensuring timely payments.

Institutional Review Board (IRB)

An Institutional Review Board (IRB) is a committee responsible for reviewing and approving research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards are met. IRBs play a critical role in protecting the rights and welfare of participants in clinical trials and other research studies.

Implicit Costs

Implicit Costs are the opportunity costs associated with using resources that a business already owns, rather than acquiring them from external sources. These costs are not directly recorded in financial statements but are important for understanding the true cost of business decisions.

Incubator

An Incubator is an organization or program that supports the development of startups and early-stage businesses by providing resources such as office space, mentorship, and access to investors. Incubators play a key role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Idea Generation

Idea Generation is the process of creating new concepts, products, or solutions through brainstorming, research, and creative thinking. It is a critical step in innovation and business development, driving growth and competitiveness.

Information Architecture

Information Architecture involves organizing and structuring information in digital systems, such as websites or software applications, to make it easily accessible and user-friendly. Effective information architecture improves user experience and helps users find what they need quickly.

Implementation Plan

An Implementation Plan is a detailed roadmap that outlines the steps, resources, and timeline required to execute a project or strategy. It ensures that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities, helping to achieve project goals efficiently.

Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help individuals save for retirement. IRAs offer tax benefits, such as tax-deferred growth or tax-free withdrawals, depending on the type of IRA.

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets are non-physical assets that have value, such as intellectual property, brand reputation, and customer relationships. These assets are important for a company’s long-term success and can contribute significantly to its market value.

Incremental Revenue

Incremental Revenue refers to the additional income generated by a specific business activity, such as a new product launch or marketing campaign. Understanding incremental revenue helps businesses evaluate the effectiveness of their initiatives.

Importer

An Importer is a person or business that brings goods or services from another country into their own for sale or use. Importers play a vital role in global trade, enabling access to a wide range of products and materials.

Investment Risk

Investment Risk is the potential for financial loss or underperformance in an investment. Different types of investment risks include market risk, credit risk, and liquidity risk, all of which must be managed to protect and grow investments.

Internet Protocol (IP)

Internet Protocol (IP) is a set of rules governing the format of data sent over the internet or other networks. IP addresses are used to identify devices connected to the network, enabling communication between computers and other devices.

Investment Grade

Investment Grade refers to bonds or other securities that have a low risk of default, as rated by credit rating agencies. Investment-grade securities are favored by conservative investors seeking stable returns with minimal risk.

Internal Communications

Internal Communications refer to the ways in which information is shared within an organization, including emails, meetings, intranets, and newsletters. Effective internal communication is crucial for maintaining employee engagement and ensuring alignment with company goals.

Interest Expense

Interest Expense is the cost incurred by an organization for borrowing money, typically in the form of interest payments on loans or bonds. Managing interest expense is important for maintaining financial health and profitability.

Internal Benchmarking

Internal Benchmarking involves comparing performance metrics within different departments or units of the same organization to identify best practices and areas for improvement. It helps businesses optimize operations and enhance overall performance.

Incentive Plan

An Incentive Plan is a structured program designed to motivate and reward employees for achieving specific goals or performance targets. Incentive plans can include bonuses, stock options, or profit-sharing, and are often used to align employee efforts with company objectives.

Industrial Engineering

Industrial Engineering is the field of engineering that focuses on optimizing complex processes, systems, or organizations to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality. Industrial engineers work to streamline operations, reduce waste, and enhance overall performance.

Inventory Management

Inventory Management involves overseeing the ordering, storage, and use of a company’s inventory, including raw materials, components, and finished products. Effective inventory management ensures that businesses have the right products in the right quantities at the right time.

Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual Property Rights are legal protections granted to the creators of intellectual property, such as patents, trademarks, and copyrights. These rights prevent others from using, selling, or distributing the protected material without permission.

Implementation Strategy

An Implementation Strategy is a plan that outlines how a project or initiative will be executed, including the steps, resources, and timeline needed to achieve specific goals. It ensures that all elements of the project are aligned and coordinated for successful outcomes.

Import Quota

An Import Quota is a government-imposed limit on the quantity or value of a specific good that can be imported into a country over a set period. Import quotas are used to protect domestic industries and control the supply of foreign goods in the market.

Indices

Indices are statistical measures that track the performance of a group of assets, such as stocks or bonds, representing a specific market or sector. Common examples include the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which provide benchmarks for assessing market trends.