Here Is the Output from Two Regression Models for Overhead

question 68

Essay

Here is the output from two regression models for overhead costs at a university using number of academic programs and number of students as potential cost drivers.
Number of academic programs
Adjusted R-square = 0.72
Intercept = 7,127.75 t-statistic = 2.14 p-value = .05
X1 variable = 240.64 t-statistic = 5.08 p-value = .001
Number of students
Adjusted R-square = 0.55
Intercept = 5,991.75 t-statistic = 1.18 p-value = .35
X1 variable = 3.78 t-statistic = 3.53 p-value = 0.01
a)Develop a cost function for each potential cost driver.
b)Compare the output for the two drivers. Choose the best cost driver for overhead costs and explain how you made that choice.
c)Suppose you use the best cost function from part (b)to estimate overhead cost for the next semester. Why is it highly unlikely that the actual cost will be exactly the same as the cost you estimated?

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Definitions:

Economist

A professional who studies, develops, and applies theories and principles of economics to understand how economies function and to inform policy.

Fixed Supply

A condition where the quantity of a good or resource available does not change, regardless of price.

Economic Rent

Payment to a factor of production in excess of what is needed to keep that factor in its current use.

Production Cost

The total expense of producing a good or service, including labor, materials, and overhead costs.