Olsen Company Uses a Standard Cost System for Its Only

question 61

Essay

Olsen Company uses a standard cost system for its only product. The bickering between purchasing and production that occurs every month after the material variances are developed has the production vice president, Mr. Becker, at his wits end. He has checked the job descriptions of the individuals involved and notes that the purchasing department is responsible for the price at which materials and supplies are purchased and the manufacturing department is responsible for the quantity of material used. This seems very clear cut to him so he has gone to the cost accountant for some additional help.
Required:
As the cost accountant, explain to Mr. Becker why, or why not, this division of duties solves the conflict between price and quantity variances.

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Definitions:

Inventory Positioning

The strategic placement of inventory within the supply chain to meet customer demand while minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency.

Centralized Inventory

A management approach where all stock is kept in a single location, facilitating easier inventory control and management.

Decentralized Inventory

An inventory management strategy where stock is kept in multiple locations to reduce delivery times and increase service levels.

Facility Layout

The arrangement of physical elements in a factory or workspace to optimize operations, including machinery, equipment, and staff.