Preston Company Is Analyzing Two Alternative Methods of Producing Its

question 26

Essay

Preston Company is analyzing two alternative methods of producing its product. The production manager indicates that variable costs can be reduced 40% by installing a machine that automates production, but fixed costs would increase. Alternative 1 shows costs before installing the machine; Alternative 2 shows costs after the machine is installed. (a) Compute the break-even point in units and dollars for both alternatives. (b) Prepare a forecasted income statement for both alternatives assuming that 30,000 units will be sold. The statements should report sales, total variable costs, contribution margin, fixed costs, income before taxes, income taxes, and net income. Below the income statement, compute the degree of operating leverage. Which alternative would you recommend and why?

---

Definitions:

Reversed

In accounting, referring to the action of negating a previous transaction or entry to correct or adjust financial records.

Accrual Basis

An accounting method where income and expenses are recorded when they are earned or incurred, regardless of when the cash transactions occur.

Insurance Expense

The cost incurred by a business for its insurance policies, which is recorded as an expense on the income statement.

Prepaid Insurance

An asset account that represents payments made in advance for insurance services, which are expensed over the period the insurance coverage is applicable.