Standard Cost Systems Can Have Motivational Effects; Some Are Desirable

question 95

Essay

Standard cost systems can have motivational effects; some are desirable, some are not. Consider the following situation:
The materials purchasing manager is paid a salary plus a bonus based on the net favourable materials price variance. Generally, this bonus amounts to 30 - 40% of the manager's total compensation. Due to the bankruptcy of a company in a related field, there is an opportunity to buy a key raw material. The standards for this material call for grade 2A, usually purchased for $56 per ton. Because of the bankruptcy, the company can obtain a higher grade, 4A, for $62 per ton. While the quality of the final product will be the same regardless of the grade of material used, there will be substantial savings in material yield and labour productivity if 4A is used. These savings are expected to be two-to-three times the additional cost of $6 per ton.
Required:
A. How would an unfavourable price variance on a particular purchase affect the overall price variance for the year and the manager's bonus?
B. Would the use of the materials price variance as a basis for the manager's bonus lead to a desirable or undesirable behavioural outcome? Explain, being sure to note whether the manager would likely pursue acquisition of the grade 4A material.

Identify the characteristics and outcomes of biculturalism within an organizational context.

Acknowledge the principles and practices of managing diversity in the workplace.

Distinguish between various leadership approaches to diversity such as valuing diversity, managing diversity, and affirmative action.

Understand the process and significance of planned organizational change, including Lewin's model.

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Definitions:

Organizational Objectives

The specific, measurable goals set by a business or organization to guide operations and strategic planning.

Planning

The process of setting objectives, determining strategies to achieve those objectives, and developing plans to integrate and coordinate activities.

Conversion Costs

The combined total of direct labor and manufacturing overhead costs that are incurred to convert raw materials into finished products.

Period Costs

Expenses that are not directly tied to the production process and are expensed in the accounting period in which they are incurred, such as salaries and utilities.