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Distinguish between the following terms as used in management accounting: (i) “Avoidable costs” and “unavoidable costs”. (ii) “Cost control” and “cost reduction”.

      

Distinguish between the following terms as used in management accounting:
(i) “Avoidable costs” and “unavoidable costs”.
(ii) “Cost control” and “cost reduction”.

  

Answers


Francis
To distinguish between the terms as used in management accounting.
(i) Avoidable costs and unavoidable costs:
Avoidable cost is a cost that can be avoided by choosing one alternative over another. It is relevant in decision making.
Unavoidable costs are costs that will be incurred regardless of the alternatives taken. It is not relevant for decision making.

(ii) Cost control and cost reduction:
Cost control
Cost control refers to processes put in place to limit (control) the total costs, such that it matches the budgeted or standard costs. Operating a standard costing system helps in cost control. The system involves:
o Establishing the standards (budgets)
o Measuring actual results
o Comparing actual results with the standards (variance analysis)
o Taking necessary actions

Cost reduction
These are process aimed at reducing (lowering) the cost per unit of a product manufactured or service rendered without changing its quality. This is implemented by using new and improved methods and techniques of production.
The following are the main differences between Cost Control and Cost Reduction:
- Cost Control focuses on decreasing the total cost of production while cost reduction focuses on decreasing per unit cost of a product.
- Cost Control is a temporary process in nature. Cost Reduction is a permanent process.
- The process of cost control will be completed when the specified target is achieved. Conversely, the process of cost reduction is a continuous process. It has no visible end. Its target is to eliminate wasteful expenses.
- Cost Control does not guarantee quality maintenance of products. However, cost reduction assures 100% quality maintenance.
- Cost Control is a preventive function because it ascertains the cost before its occurrence. Cost Reduction is a corrective function.
francis1897 answered the question on November 14, 2022 at 08:48


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